Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
Appointments by prior arrangement
Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
✔ Subspecialty Focus in Shoulder & Elbow, Sports Injuries
✔ Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
✔ Evidence-based treatment, Individualised Care
Shoulder Dislocation Treatment in Singapore
Shoulder dislocation is a common injury, particularly in active individuals and athletes. It occurs when the ball of the shoulder joint comes out of its socket, leading to pain, instability and risk of recurrence.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is a Singapore-based orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, located at Mount Elizabeth Novena. He manages both first-time and recurrent shoulder dislocations using evidence-based non-surgical and surgical approaches.
WHAT IS A SHOULDER DISLOCATION?
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder jointThe shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint that allows a wide range of motion. A dislocation occurs when the ball (humeral head) is forced out of the socket (glenoid).
Types include:
- Anterior dislocation (most common)
- Posterior dislocation
- Inferior dislocation (rare)
Anterior dislocations typically occur during sports or falls, especially when the arm is forced into an abducted and externally rotated position.
SYMPTOMS OF SHOULDER DISLOCATION
- Sudden severe shoulder pain
- Visible deformity
- Inability to move the arm
- Swelling and bruising
- Feeling of instability after reduction
After the joint is put back in place, some patients may continue to experience a sense of looseness or recurrent slipping.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A SPECIALIST?
You should seek specialist evaluation if:
- This is your first dislocation, especially if you are young or active
- You have recurrent dislocations or instability
- There is persistent pain or weakness after reduction
- You wish to return to sports safely
At 360 Orthopaedics in Singapore, Dr Puah Ken Lee evaluates shoulder stability using clinical examination and imaging such as MRI where necessary.
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT
For first-time dislocations, especially in older or less active individuals, non-surgical management may be appropriate.
Options include:
- Sling immobilisation
- Physiotherapy to strengthen shoulder stabilisers
- Activity modification
Non-surgical treatment may reduce symptoms, but the risk of recurrence depends on age and activity level.
RISK OF RECURRENT DISLOCATION
Will my shoulder dislocate again?
The risk of recurrence is higher in younger, active patients—especially those involved in contact or overhead sports. In some cases, repeated dislocations can lead to further damage to the labrum or bone.
WHEN IS SURGERY NEEDED?
Surgery may be recommended when:
- There are recurrent dislocations
- The patient is young and active
- There is significant labral injury (Bankart lesion)
- There is associated bone loss
Do I need surgery after a shoulder dislocation?
Not all patients require surgery after a first dislocation. However, in young athletes or those with recurrent instability, surgical stabilisation is often recommended to reduce the risk of future dislocations.
Dr Puah Ken Lee performs arthroscopic (keyhole) stabilisation procedures in Singapore, tailored to the pattern of instability and patient activity goals.
Arthroscopic Stabilisation and Remplissage
In patients with recurrent shoulder instability, arthroscopic stabilisation is commonly performed to repair the torn labrum and restore joint stability.
In selected cases, an additional procedure known as the Remplissage procedure may be performed. This involves addressing a bone defect on the humeral head (Hill-Sachs lesion) by using the surrounding tendon to reduce the risk of further dislocation.
This technique is typically considered when:
- There is a significant Hill-Sachs lesion
- There is a higher risk of recurrent instability
- Additional stability is required beyond labral repair
Dr Puah will assess the pattern of injury and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach based on individual factors.
In patients with recurrent dislocation or bone loss, procedures such as arthroscopic Latarjet may be considered.
Management of shoulder instability may involve a combination of procedures, including labral repair, Remplissage, or bone augmentation techniques depending on the injury pattern.
RECOVERY AFTER SHOULDER STABILISATION
Recovery typically involves:
- Sling immobilisation for several weeks
- Progressive physiotherapy
- Gradual return to activity
General timelines:
- Daily activities: ~4–6 weeks
- Non-contact sports: ~3 months
- Contact/overhead sports: ~4–6 months
Recovery varies depending on the procedure and patient factors.
RETURN TO SPORTS
Safe return to sports depends on:
- Restoration of strength and stability
- Completion of rehabilitation
- Type of sport
As a sports injury specialist in Singapore, Dr Puah Ken Lee focuses on restoring function and minimising recurrence risk, particularly for athletes.
Return to Sport After Shoulder Stabilisation
Return to sport after shoulder stabilisation surgery depends on factors such as the type of injury, surgical technique and rehabilitation.
Clinical research has shown that appropriate surgical repair combined with structured rehabilitation can result in high rates of return to sport and patient satisfaction.
These principles guide treatment planning and post-operative care.
COST OF SHOULDER DISLOCATION TREATMENT IN SINGAPORE
Costs depend on:
- Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
- Type of procedure performed
- Insurance coverage and hospital
Patients are provided with detailed financial counselling prior to surgery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I avoid surgery after a shoulder dislocation?
Yes, some patients can be treated non-surgically, especially after a first dislocation. However, recurrence risk should be considered.
How long should I wear a sling?
Typically 4-6 weeks, depending on the severity and treatment plan.
Can physiotherapy prevent recurrence?
Physiotherapy helps strengthen the shoulder, but may not fully prevent recurrence in high-risk individuals.
Is shoulder dislocation surgery safe?
Arthroscopic stabilisation is commonly performed and generally safe, with good outcomes when appropriately indicated.
For a full overview of shoulder conditions, visit Shoulder Specialist Singapore
Shoulder dislocation can lead to long-term instability if not properly managed. Early assessment allows for appropriate treatment and reduces recurrence risk.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena. Patients with shoulder instability are encouraged to seek specialist evaluation.