Many people rely on their shoulders to perform sports, work, or everyday tasks. Unfortunately, shoulder injuries are some of the most common injuries, especially among athletes. After all, the pressure and weight that these joints bear can be extremely high. With that said, it’s important for you to recognize these injuries and learn how to treat them.
Let’s talk about the most common shoulder injuries and where you can find the best treatments in Baltimore, MD.
Rotator Cuff Injury
This is the most common shoulder injury. It’s caused when tendons and muscles that support the joint become weak or tear.
Rotator cuff tears are categorized according to the extent of the tear, ranging from partial to full-thickness damage.
When you sustain this injury, you may experience the following:
- Pain when you move your shoulder or arm
- Weakness in the shoulder and arm
- Limited range of motion in the shoulder
You may also find it difficult to raise your arm above your head. That is because the rotator cuff is responsible for this movement.
Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injury
Treatment for this injury depends on the severity of the tear. In some cases, physical therapy and rest may be enough to relieve pain and restore strength. Your therapist may recommend exercises to help strengthen the muscles and tendons in your shoulder.
For more severe rotator cuff tears, surgery can help repair the damage. The surgery is called an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and involves making small incisions in the shoulder area.
If a muscle or tendon is completely torn, the surgeon will have to reattach it. Then, you will need to wear a sling for several weeks while they recover.
In general, the sooner you seek treatment for this injury, the better your chances of a successful recovery.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
This occurs when the rotator cuff becomes pinched between two bones (the humerus and scapula). This can be caused by overuse, injury, or poor posture.
As a result, you may experience pain, weakness, and a limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.
This injury is common for those participatingin overhead or repetitive activities, such as tennis and swimming.
Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation and restore movement to the shoulder. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy to help relieve your symptoms.
You may also need to modify activities or exercises that aggravate your condition. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area.
For more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. During the procedure, the doctor will remove any tissue or bone pinching the rotator cuff.
In general, with proper treatment and rest, you can expect to recover from this condition within a few weeks.
Shoulder Bursitis
This occurs when the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac near the shoulder joint) becomes inflamed. The injury can be caused by overuse or direct trauma to the area.
You may experience pain, swelling, and tenderness in your joint.
Shoulder bursitis is typical for those who repetitively use their shoulder for activities, such as throwing or lifting.
Treatment for Shoulder Bursitis
The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and pain. Your doctor may recommend rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may also be used to reduce inflammation in the bursa.
If your condition does not respond to conservative treatments, you may need surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in the area and remove any inflamed tissue.You can expect to recover from this condition within a few weeks with proper treatment and rest.
Generally, it’s best to seek medical treatment if you sustain any shoulder injury. You can visit your shoulder doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis. They can also recommend the best treatment that fits your individual needs.
The Best Shoulder Doctor in Baltimore, MD
Our orthopedic surgeons here at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder have advanced training and years of experience in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal problems related to the hand, wrist, arm, elbow, and shoulder. So, whether your shoulder pain is due to arthritis, workplace injury, sports, or even a congenital deformity, we can help.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (410) 296-6232 or request a visit online by filling out our appointment request form now. We have convenient locations in Lutherville, Bel Air, Pasadena, Clarksville, Eldersburg, Westminster, and Baltimore, and we look forward to serving you!
We look forward to helping life actively and without pain!
