Intra-articular lidocaine for the reduction of posterior shoulder dislocation

Anterior shoulder dislocations are the most common major joint dislocation seen in emergency departments. Intra-articular lidocaine is a useful method of analgesia for facilitating the reduction of anterior shoulder dislocations. Posterior shoulder dislocations represent a small minority of shoulder dislocations. We present the case of a posterior shoulder reduction in an elderly female whose reduction was performed following the intra-articular injection of lidocaine. Intra-articular lidocaine represents a useful alternative to facilitate the reduction of shoulder dislocations, particularly in patients at higher risk for complications from sedation.