Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation as a result of manipulation

RATIONALE Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation is clinically rare and has been reported to be related to high-speed sports. PATIENT CONCERNS A 76-year-old woman presented with bilateral shoulders pain after traditional Chinese manipulation. DIAGNOSES She was diagnosed with bilateral anterior dislocations, and a closed reduction was immediately performed. INTERVENTION The patient was referred for rehabilitation 3 days later, and bilateral rotator cuff injuries were identified from musculoskeletal ultrasound. After 4 weeks of physical therapy, the patient's shoulder pain had reduced and the passive ROM was nearly full. OUTCOMES At 1-year follow-up, only mild intermittent shoulder pain was noted, and there was no limitation of shoulder ROM. LESSONS This case illustrates that patients with acute shoulder injuries who receive proper diagnosis and treatment can achieve good outcomes. Therefore, patients with musculoskeletal disorders should seek qualified specialists for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.