In 40 seconds
Anterior shoulder dislocation is common in rugby — particularly in tackling and falling on the outstretched arm. First-time dislocations under age 25 have very high recurrence rates without surgery. PEMF therapy supports recovery from both conservative and surgical pathways. Used widely in rugby for first-time and recurrent dislocations.
Quick facts
- Mechanism: Tackle, fallen on outstretched arm
- Recurrence (under 25, no surgery): 70–90%
- Recurrence (over 30): Lower
- Treatment: Conservative or surgical (Bankart repair / Latarjet)
- PEMF role: Reduces inflammation, supports ligament/capsule healing
Why this injury happens in this sport
The anterior labrum and IGHL are typically damaged. Younger players almost always re-dislocate without surgery — modern guidance increasingly recommends early surgical stabilisation in young athletes.
Recovery and return to sport
Post-immobilisation: PEMF 2–3× per week for 6 weeks alongside progressive ROM. Post-Bankart / Latarjet: PEMF starts week 1 post-op alongside surgeon's protocol.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Should I have surgery after my first dislocation?
Increasingly yes, particularly if you're under 25 and want to keep playing. Evidence has shifted in the last decade.
Will it dislocate again?
Without surgery and full rehab, very likely if you're under 25. PEMF helps healing biology but doesn't change the structural problem.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.