The shoulder is a very mobile joint, enabling a wide range of motion for daily tasks. This flexibility, while beneficial, also makes the shoulder susceptible to injury. Sudden shoulder injuries can occur without warning in everyday life. When an injury happens, the initial response can set the course for recovery. This initial self-awareness provides helpful context when seeking a professional evaluation.
What Causes Shoulder Injuries?
Shoulder injuries can result from various events or activities. Common causes include direct trauma, such as a direct blow to the shoulder during a sporting event. Repetitive overhead motions, common in sports and certain occupations, can strain the shoulder over time, leading to overuse injuries. Lifting an object that is too heavy or using improper form may also cause immediate injury to the muscles or tendons.
Risk factors may contribute to the likelihood of sustaining a shoulder injury. Poor posture may alter the mechanics of the shoulder joint, placing uneven stress on its structures. A sudden increase in the intensity or duration of physical activity or workload without proper conditioning or stretching can also overload the shoulder, leading to injury.
What Symptoms Indicate an Injury?
The signs of a shoulder injury can vary in type and severity. Pain is a primary indicator. It might be sharp and localized to a specific point, or it could be a dull ache that radiates down the arm or into the neck. Swelling or bruising may appear around the shoulder joint shortly after the incident.
You might experience weakness in the arm, making it difficult to lift objects or raise your arm. Many people report a reduced range of motion, feeling stiffness, or a blockage when they try to move their shoulder. Audible or palpable sensations like popping during movement can also point to an underlying problem.
Certain symptoms suggest that obtaining a prompt evaluation is appropriate. A visible deformity of the shoulder, such as a bump or an unusual contour, indicates a potential dislocation or fracture. The sudden onset of severe swelling or an inability to move the arm at all is also a sign that requires attention. Numbness or a tingling sensation extending down the arm may signal nerve involvement.
How Is It Treated?
The approach to managing a shoulder injury depends on its specific nature and severity. General pathways often begin with conservative measures. Rest is a common starting point, involving a temporary halt of activities that strain the shoulder. Modifying daily tasks to avoid painful movements can also help protect the joint. For discomfort, a professional might discuss the use of ice therapy. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be another option for managing symptoms.
In some cases, a specialist may suggest using a brace or sling to immobilize the shoulder, allowing the injured tissues to heal. Physical therapy is can also be a part of the recovery process. A physical therapist guides patients through exercises designed to restore range of motion, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles supporting the shoulder joint. If a diagnosis is unclear from a physical examination, a doctor may order imaging tests to get a detailed view of the bones and soft tissues.
Consult a Shoulder Specialist
Following a sudden shoulder injury, obtaining a professional diagnosis is a prudent step toward recovery. A shoulder specialist, such as an orthopedic specialist, has the expertise to accurately identify the cause of your symptoms and create a suitable management plan. By working with a specialist, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and a personalized plan to help you return to your normal activities.
