Shoulder dislocation is a potential cause of nerve injury. The axillary nerve is particularly at risk, but the brachial plexus, predominantly the infraclavicular part, can be injured as well. Careful neurological assessment and documentation is important at the time of presentation to the emergency department both pre and post reduction. Nerve injuries associated with shoulder dislocation could be missed and/or poorly managed leading to avoidable long-term disability. Patients with neurological deficit should be referred to an acute shoulder clinic with access to specialists in peripheral nerve surgery and therapy. The best results are with early intervention. There is a trend towards better outcomes with intervention before 4–6 months following injury.