Your shoulder joint is the most mobile in your body. It allows you to perform a wide range of motion for all sorts of activities. But it’s the shoulder’s flexibility that also makes it susceptible to injury.
Laborers and athletes are prone to developing shoulder problems through repetitive and intense physical movement. The most common shoulder injuries involve the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Here are four of the most common shoulder injuries:
Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability occurs as a result of the shoulder joint being forced into an abnormal position. In this case, the shoulder joint dislodges from the socket, resulting in a dislocated shoulder. If you have shoulder instability, you will likely feel as if your shoulder is moving out of place. Shoulder instability will also make it painful for you to raise your arm, brush your teeth, or throw a ball. There are different types of shoulder instability and a complete diagnosis involves a physical exam and X-rays.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is an injury that is a result of the excessive rubbing of the shoulder muscle against the shoulder blade. This type of injury is characterized by nagging shoulder pain and restricted movement. You are at risk of developing shoulder impingement after excessive overhead arm motion during activities like playing tennis, swimming, or by placing heavy items in an overhead compartment. In the case of shoulder impingement, you should seek immediate medical attention for it could lead to a more serious injury (like a rotator cuff tear) if ignored.
Rotator Cuff Tear
The rotator cuff is comprised of the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint that keep your upper arm bone within the socket of the shoulder. It is the rotator cuff that enables you to lift your arm overhead. One of the most common shoulder injuries, a rotator cuff tear is usually the result of wear and tear. While it’s a common condition in certain occupations like carpenters and painters, athletes are also at an increased risk of developing rotator cuff problems. And when you do have rotator cuff problems, you may find even the easiest tasks such as combing your hair difficult. Some people never fully recover their range of motion after a rotator cuff injury. If you suspect a rotator cuff tear, visit your orthopedic surgeon immediately.
Arthritis of the Shoulder
Adults over 50 are especially prone to developing arthritis of the shoulder due to a wearing down of the cartilage that lines bones and the joints. The treatment for shoulder arthritis depends on the type of arthritis you have and the recommendation of your orthopedic surgeon. Some treatments include anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections. And if these methods prove ineffective, you may need a shoulder replacement.
Orthopedic Surgeon in San Antonio, Texas
The orthopedic doctors at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio are experts at diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries. Since 1990, we have been helping patients with orthopedic problems return to a normal and active life. Our team of specialists believes in exhausting all nonsurgical options before recommending surgery.
If you have injured your shoulder and are suffering from shoulder pain, feel free to give us a call at (210) 692-7400 or request an appointment now. Our goal is to relieve your pain and restore your range of motion.
