Shoulder Injuries
The shoulder is the most dynamic and movable joint in the body. Shoulder injuries are frequently caused by athletic activities that involve excessive, repetitive, overhead motion, such as swimming, tennis, pitching, and weightlifting. Injuries can also occur during everyday activities such washing walls, hanging curtains, and gardening. Unfortunately, this range of motion can also lead to instability. 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.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
A rotator cuff is comprised of four muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint and provide mobility. This network of muscles and tendons connect your upper arm bone with the shoulder blade. A main function is to firmly hold the ball joint of the upper arm in the socket. While the combination of muscles, tendons and ball and socket joint results in tremendous range of motion, it also puts you at risk for injury. A rotator cuff injury includes any damage or irritation to the muscles or tendons. Injuries can be caused by overuse, the normal aging process or some acute, traumatic incident. This can create uncomfortable pain and reduce the range of motion in the shoulder.
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Shoulder Joint Injuries
The shoulder joint is comprised of three parts: the clavicle, the scapula, and the humerus. Shoulder joint injuries can be caused by a traumatic event like falling awkwardly on the arm or a jolt while trying to lift a heavy object. Many people confuse a separated shoulder and a dislocated shoulder. While similarly situated, these are very different injuries.
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Shoulder Therapy
Shoulder therapy, as opposed to surgery, is normally the first step towards regaining range of motion for a shoulder injury and returning to competition. Due to the extreme range of motion in a shoulder, it is critical that immediate attention is paid when an injury does occur. The reaction of injured athletes is to immobilize the injury. While this is totally natural, the real goal is to treat the injury, but to also maintain range of motion in the shoulder. During therapy, a comprehensive exercise program will be developed to ensure a complete return of shoulder flexibility, stability, strength and range of motion.
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