Shoulder+injuries

=__Shoulder Injuries__=

In 2003, approximately 13.7 million people went to the doctor's office for a shoulder problem, including 3.7 million visits for shoulder and upper arm sprains and strains.

Your shoulders are the most movable joints in your body. They can also be unstable because the ball of the upper arm is larger than the shoulder socket that holds it. To remain in a stable or normal position, the shoulder must be anchored by muscles, tendons and ligaments. Because the shoulder can be unstable, it is the site of many common problems. They include [|sprains, strains], [|dislocations], separations, [|tendinitis], [|bursitis], torn rotator cuffs, frozen shoulder, fractures and [|arthritis]. Usually shoulder problems are treated with RICE. This stands for **R**est, **I**ce, **C**ompression and **E**levation. Other treatments include exercise, medicines to reduce pain and swelling, and surgery if other treatments don't work.

Some of the more common injuries to the shoulder include muscle strains, capsule tears, bursitis/tendonitis, and separated and dislocated shoulders.
 * Muscle strains** can be the result of a sharp, explosive injury or a repetitive condition that can be attributed to faulty mechanics or overuse.
 * A partial or complete tear of any of the rotator cuff are very** devastating and warrants immediate attention, so the injury does not get worse. Muscles and tendons have good healing capabilities, but proper guidance through a rehabilitation program is essential. Additional specific information about rotator cuff injuries and repair can be found by [|clicking here].


 * Capsule tears** can also be of a sharp or constant nature. severe episodes of capsule tears are the result of excessive torque placed upon the joint, usually in a rotational manner. Chronic tears can be the result of too much stress on the joint over a prolonged period of time. For example, baseball pitchers, javelin throwers, and gymnasts are at risk of capsular injuries because of their activity. Conservative treatment consists of strengthening the surrounding structures in such a way that does not aggravate the area. Treatment should be taken care of and consist of icing when swollen, modification of activities that worsen symptoms, and rest when irritated.


 * Bursitis/tendonitis** is a chronic condition that signals overuse and/or poor mechanics. Poor posture, anatomical disposition, muscle imbalance, and faulty overhead lifting mechanics are some of the causes of these conditions. Once the bursa sac and/or tendon have been impinged under the acromion arch repeatedly, it becomes swollen. Once it is swollen, it becomes easier to impinge and the cycle continues. Postural education, stretching chest muscles, and strengthening of upper back muscles all aid in reducing symptoms. As always, modification of aggravating activities is essential to allow for proper healing.



Two other common injuries are separated and dislocated shoulders:
 * A separated shoulder** is typically done by falling or getting hit on the apex of the shoulder, tearing the ligament that holds the clavicle (collarbone) to the acromion. As with any sprain, there are different types of tears. Some tears are more severe than others. The level of dysfunction is directly related to the degree of tear, which means if you are less active following the injury typically means it is more severely injured.


 * Shoulder dislocation**, on the other hand, is when the ball comes out of the socket joint. This injury should be promptly seen by a doctor. Proper decrease of the dislocation is very important so that no further injury to the surrounding tissue, nerves, and blood supply occurs. The shoulder is typically protected in a sling for 1 - 2 weeks following injury. During this time, wrist, forearm, and elbow exercises are performed and gentle range of motion exercises of the shoulder are given to decrease stiffness.