A shoulder injury is any injury that affects the structure or function of the shoulder joint. This can include injuries to the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or cartilage in and around the shoulder. Shoulder injuries can result from overuse, trauma, or degenerative conditions and can cause pain, weakness, stiffness, and reduces range of motion in the shoulder joint. Treatment for a shoulder injury may include rest, physical therapy, medications, or surgery, depending on the severity and type of injury.
There are several types of shoulder pain that people can experience . These can include:
1. Rotator cuff injury: This involves a tear in the muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. This type of shoulder pain is common in people who play sports or engage in repetitive overhead motions. It typically causes pain or tenderness in the front or outer shoulder, and can sometimes make it difficult to reach overhead.
2. Shoulder Impingement – This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed between the humerus bone and the acromion ( part of the shoulder blade). It is a common condition , especially in athletes who engage in overhead activities.
3. Shoulder dislocation- This happens when the humerus bone comes out of its socket. It is often caused by a traumatic injury and can result in instability of the shoulder joint.
4. Frozen shoulder- Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is a conditon where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. This can make it difficult to move the arm and perform everyday tasks. It can be caused by injury, surgery, or medical conditions such as diabetes.
5. Bursitis- When the small fluid-filled sacs called bursae become inflamed, it can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the shoulder.
6. Arthritis- Shoulder arthritis can cause pain, stiffness , and loss of mobility in the joint. It can also lead to a clicking sound or sensation when moving the arm.
7. Tendinitis-Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder can cause pain, swelling ,and difficulty moving the joint .
The frequency of shoulder pain can very depending on the individual’s lifestyle, age, and otherfactors such as underlying medical conditions or previous injuries. Some people may experienceoccasional shoulder pain due to sleeping in a awkward position, while others may have chronic pain due to a more serious underlying condition. However, studies show that rotator cuff tears and shoulder impingement are among the most common shoulder injuries, accounting for up to 70% of
the shoulder-related visits to orthopaedic surgeons. Shoulder dislocations are less common, affecting about 1% of the population, while frozen shoulder is seen in about 2-5% of adults.
How Physiotherapy can Help Physiotherapy can help a shoulder injury in a number of ways :
1. Reduce pain : Physiotherapists use various techniques such as joint mobilisation, massages and stretching exercises to reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Restore Range of Motion: Range of motion exercises help restore lost shoulder function caused due to injury.
3. Strengthen Muscles: Physiotherapists use specialised techniques to improve shoulder muscle strength so that they can support shoulder movement.
4. Promote Healing: Specific exercises and techniques are employed which encourage blood flow and healthy tissue regeneration to promote faster recovery.
5. Prevent reccurent injury: Physiotherapists offer tips and advice on how to avoid future shoulder injuries by advising stretches, postures and training protocols. At AC Physiotherapy we provide an effective and efficient way to treat shoulder injuries proving individuals with long-term relief, mobility and rehabilitation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.