Scapular manipulation for reduction of anterior shoulder dislocations

Scapular manipulation is an effective, safe method to reduce an acute anterior shoulder dislocation. The method described by Bosley and Miles in 1979 has been used by the Orthopaedic Staff at Henry Ford Hospital since February 1979. It was the initial reduction method used in 51 patients and was successful in 47. With experience, and a properly executed technique, the method is relatively simple and can be applied to all patients.