Common Shoulder Injuries
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The Most Frequently Sustained Shoulder Injuries
Although shoulder injuries athletes, injuries can also happen due to everyday activities and accidents. The experts at Fox Valley Orthopedics are here to break down some of the most commonly sustained injuries affecting the shoulder.
Dislocation
Your shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, leaving it highly susceptible to dislocation. When the arm is pulled or twisted with extreme external force, it can cause the humerus to become displaced out of the socket of your shoulder.
Signs and symptoms of a dislocated shoulder include:
- Visual deformity
- Swelling around the affected shoulder
- Numbness to the shoulder and arm
- Weakness
- Bruising around the shoulder
Keep in mind that a dislocated shoulder is considered a medical emergency. If you believe that you may have experienced a dislocation, seek medical attention immediately.
Separation
Shoulder separation involves damage to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, which is typically caused by a fall directly on the shoulder. When this happens, there is tearing to the supportive ligament that stabilizes the AC joint.
Signs and symptoms of a shoulder separation include:
- Shoulder pain
- Limited range of motion of the affected shoulder
- Swelling around the affected shoulder
- Bruising around the shoulder
- A bump at the top ot the shoulder
Rotator Cuff Impingement
It’s common for the rotator cuff to be a source of shoulder pain and discomfort. Impingement happens when the space between the acromion and rotator cuff becomes narrow, causing the acromion to rub against or pinch the tendons of the rotator cuff. Typically this is brought on by repetitive motions that lead to pain-causing inflammation.
Signs and symptoms of rotator cuff impingement include:
- Pain radiating from the front to the side of the shoulder
- Sudden pain when lifting objects or reaching
- Pain when throwing or serving in overhead sports
- Minor pain with ot without activity
