In the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Game 2 victory over the Yankees in the World Series, Dodgers suffered a left shoulder subluxation. Attempting to steal second base in the seventh inning, he slid past the bag and clutched his shoulder, causing concern for Dodgers fans. Assistant athletic trainer Yosuke Nakajima helped him off the field. Following the Dodgers’ 4-2 win, which put them up 2-0 in the series, manager Dave Roberts confirmed his injury and noted that further testing, including imaging, would be conducted to assess the severity.
A shoulder subluxation occurs when the upper arm bone’s head partially slips out of the shoulder socket, causing pain and possible weakness, numbness, or tingling. While often less severe than a full dislocation, this type of injury still requires medical attention. If untreated, it could weaken the shoulder’s supporting structures, increasing the risk of future dislocations. Treatment usually involves a closed reduction, where a doctor gently repositions the joint without surgery. In some cases, physical therapy is recommended to strengthen the surrounding muscles and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
While most people would keep the shoulder immobilized after a subluxation, Ohtani’s role as a key player in the World Series complicates his situation. Physical therapy and anti-inflammatory measures can support recovery, but activity must be limited to avoid re-injury. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remains hopeful Ohtani can play in Game 3 at Yankee Stadium, though further imaging, possibly an MRI, is needed to determine his availability.
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