Shoulder injuries and their associated pain and poor function affect about 7.5 percent of American athletes. If you are living with shoulder pain, a sports medicine doctor can diagnose the underlying problem and offer ways to overcome it. Here’s more on the causes of and solutions for shoulder pain.
The Causes of Shoulder Pain in Athletes
Shoulder pain is a common complaint among athletes. The shoulder is a complex joint, easily injured with repetitive overuse or sudden trauma. Some of the most common causes of shoulder pain in athletes include the following.
Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and tendons that operate the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing for 360 degrees of free movement. Athletes who use overhead movements, such as throwing a baseball or serving in tennis, are at higher risk for rotator cuff tears, which limit movement and cause pain.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when there is inflammation or irritation of the tendons and bursa in the shoulder. This inflammation causes painful overhead movements used for swimming or throwing. Also, the space between the acromion and the rotator cuff can narrow, leading to persistent shoulder pain and soreness.
Glenohumeral Instability
This term refers to frequent shoulder dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations). Athletes who participate in contact sports, such as football or wrestling, are at higher risk for this very painful injury.
Sprains and Strains
These common shoulder injuries occur when the ligaments or muscles in the shoulder joint are stretched or torn. Sprains refer to tears in ligaments, while strains involve damage to muscles. They happen with hard impact, repetitive overuse, or sudden movements that stress the shoulder beyond its normal range of motion.
Bursitis
The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the bones and tendons in the shoulder. Overuse or repetitive movements can cause inflammation of the bursa, resulting in ongoing pain and stiffness.
Tendinitis
Similar to bursitis, tendinitis is an overuse injury featuring inflammation of the connective tissue in the shoulder. Athletes who perform repetitive motions with their arms, such as throwing or swinging a tennis racquet, are at higher risk for tendinitis.
SLAP Tears
SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tears occur when the top part of the labrum cartilage lining the shoulder socket rips. A sudden collision or overuse in baseball or volleyball commonly causes this painful problem, as can falling hard on an outstretched arm.
Fractures
Shoulder fractures are not as common as other injuries but can still occur from a hard impact or fall onto the shoulder. Depending on the severity of the break and its location, fractures may require surgery and an extended period of immobilization.
How Your Sports Doctor Can Help with Shoulder Pain in Athletes
If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain that interferes with your daily life and sports regimen, see your sports doctor for a thorough in-office evaluation and X-rays or other imaging. From there, the physician can create a personalized treatment plan to include physical therapy, medications, slings, or, in some cases, surgery.
At our sports medicine clinic, we offer the most advanced shoulder surgeries, including traditional and reverse shoulder replacements and arthroscopic procedures. Arthroscopic surgeries feature smaller incisions, less soft tissue disruption, and faster recovery.
Preventing Shoulder Injuries
While injuries can sometimes be unavoidable, you reduce your risk of developing shoulder pain. Our strategies are evidence-based and focus on your individual needs and training goals. Here are some examples.
Warm-Up Every Time
People of all ages should warm up before sports and exercise. Stretching increases blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, preparing them for the demands of running, tennis, gym workouts, and more.
A good warm-up should include dynamic stretching or movements that mimic the ones used in your sport. For example, if you will be playing tennis, your warm-up should include arm swings and rotations.
Proper Form and Technique
Using proper form and technique while exercising or playing sports can prevent shoulder pain. Use the correct body mechanics and avoid positions that strain your shoulder joints.
Even outside of exercise and sports, good posture and body mechanics limit stress and strain on all your joints. For instance, be sure to sit, stand, walk, and run with your shoulders pulled back, and avoid slouching or hunching over.
Don’t Ignore Shoulder Pain in Athletes
If you experience any pain or discomfort in your shoulders while exercising or playing sports, do not ignore it. Pushing through pain can cause further injury and prolong recovery time.
Instead, listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If the pain persists, seek medical attention.
In addition, if you have a history of shoulder injuries or weakness in the shoulder joints, pay particular attention to how they move and feel. Stay one step ahead of any pain or limited movement by consulting your sports medicine doctor for advice.
Alleviate Shoulder Pain with Advice from Your Sports Medicine Doctor in Lutherville, MD
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, our orthopedic specialists have advanced knowledge in sports medicine. They can provide expert advice on how to prevent and relieve shoulder pain. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or just active in recreational activities, our team can optimize your performance.
Learn more by calling us for an in-office consultation with one of our sports medicine doctors at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment here. You do not have to live with shoulder pain. We can help. Call today!
