The Noergaard technique is a non-traumatic method for reduction of anterior shoulder dislocation

Abstract

Introduction: In this article, we describe the Noergaard technique for reduction of anterior shoulder dislocation. This is an atraumatic reduction method proven successful through several years of practice. We describe and evaluate the results of this technique through a retrospective analysis of patients admitted and treated for anterior shoulder dislocation at the emergency department (ED) of Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark, in a one-year period.

Methods: We reviewed the charts of all patients admitted with anterior shoulder dislocation (n = 151) at the ED. In the Noergaard technique, the patient is placed standing, bent over forwards in front of the rail on a hospital bed, resting the forehead on the back of the non-affected forearm, which is placed on the rail. The affected arm should now be relaxed and stretched, hanging straight down towards the floor. The patient is then instructed to relax as much as possible and make pendular and circular motions with the affected arm hanging down.

Results: Reduction was primarily attempted in 67 patients using the Noergaard technique. Successful reduction was achieved in a total of 52 patients (77%).

Conclusions: The Noergaard technique seems to be a safe and atraumatic reduction technique that involves no physical manipulation of the affected limb. Based on our results and experience, we recommend the use of this technique as first line of treatment in anterior shoulder dislocations.

Funding: none.

Trial registration: The study was registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03649373).

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