The Shoulder Injuries You Can’t Ignore

Every time you throw a ball or stretch to reach the top shelf, you take advantage of your shoulder’s flexibility. It is your flexible shoulder that enables you to move your arm into all sorts of positions. Unfortunately, sometimes we push the joint farther than it can be pushed, which results in a strain, tear or dislocation.

Shoulder injuries are common in sports, particularly in sportspersons who have to swing their arms. Apart from sports, there can be many more causes of shoulder injury. If you feel a strain or suspect an injury, do not live with the discomfort, instead visit a doctor.

Here are different kinds of shoulder injuries that you must seek prompt treatment for.

Shoulder Strains

The most common shoulder injury is shoulder strain. It occurs in the front or anterior head of the deltoid, underneath which run the biceps. The strain is mostly caused by lifting too much weight or as a result of a jerk from a heavy weight. Only a few cases of shoulder strains need to be given medical treatment.

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

Shoulder strain can sometimes be tendinitis. It occurs in the shoulder when there is an inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons and the bursa that surrounds them. Tendinitis develops when the top of the humerus (upper arm bone) and acromiom (the protruding part of the scapula) rub together. You may only experience pain on the affected shoulder when you sleep on it at night. Another characteristic of the condition is trouble raising the arm over head. If you are experiencing persistent pain of the shoulder, see a doctor.

Torn Rotator Cuff

A rotator cuff tear is a shoulder injury in which any one of the four tendons of the rotator cuff tears. It usually occurs while lifting heavy weights for many years or in the old age. The symptoms of the condition are pain on top of the shoulder or along the outside of the arm to the elbow. In the condition, you will find it difficult to lift the affected arm above the shoulder level or are not able to reach out for objects. This shoulder injury may sometimes require a surgery.

Shoulder Dislocation

A shoulder separation occurs in the acromioclavicular joint where the scapula and clavicle bones meet. A fall or sharp blow to the top of the shoulder is the most common reason for shoulder separation. In this injury, the ligament, tissues and nerves may get injured. You may also suffer fractured bones in the area. A lump may be present if it is a serious injury. Among other symptoms are severe pain, swelling and bruising. Slings are advised to promote healing. The more serious injuries may require medical attention.

(Image source:Gettyimages.in)

Read more articles on Pain.