Aim: To examine the efficacy and ease of use of the scapular manipulation method in the reduction of anterior shoulder dislocations and the need for sedation/analgesia that usually requires prolonged observation of the patient after reduction.

Method: This was a prospective series over six months. All patients presenting to the Waikato Hospital Emergency Department with uncomplicated anterior shoulder dislocations were included in the study. Reduction was firstly attempted with the Scapular Manipulation Method without analgesia or sedation. Where this was unsuccessful, analgesia and/or sedation was given and their shoulders reduced by one of various methods. The patients who received sedation were then observed as required.

Results: Thirty-five patients with anterior shoulder dislocations were seen. In 30 cases the scapular manipulation method of reduction was used with a success rate of more than 80%. The need for sedation/analgesia that would usually lead to a period of observation was greatly reduced.

Conclusion: The scapular manipulation method of reduction of anterior shoulder dislocation is an easy and safe technique with a success rate, and it obviates the need for prolonged patient observation.