A randomised controlled trial on the effect of Physiotherapy and an external rotation brace in the management of first time anterior shoulder dislocations in patients aged 15-40 years.

This project will be the first high quality clinical trial comparing two conservative physiotherapy management approaches for anterior shoulder dislocations (ASDs) using reliable measures of shoulder function and re-dislocation as outcomes. This project will also contribute to the research in immobilisation positioning for patients with ASD and will provide further direction on the implications of conservative management versus surgical intervention for this population. The incidence of ASD has been estimated at approximately 1.7% of the population and the consequences of traumatic shoulder dislocation and re-dislocation include loss of work productivity, ongoing loss and limitation of shoulder function and sporting activities, and degenerative arthropathy, all contributing to great cost for the patient and community. The findings of this project will benefit patients, orthopaedic specialists, emergency department specialists, general practitioners and allied health personnel who deal with this frequently seen condition and consequently reduce the significant costs associated.