Shoulder
How to Treat Shoulder Injuries?
Shoulder injury treatment involves rest, immobilization, and applying ice and compression to reduce swelling. Elevating the shoulder minimizes inflammation, while pain management includes over-the-counter medications and professional guidance. Physical therapy with stretching and strengthening exercises aids recovery and prevents future issues. Gradual activity resumption under supervision is essential, and correcting contributing factors like poor posture is crucial.
Common Shoulder Injuries:
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Shoulder Impingement
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
- Labral Tears
- Dislocations and Instabilities
- AC Joint Sprain or Separation
- Fractures
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Biceps Tendinopathy
What Is a Frozen Shoulder?
A frozen shoulder is characterized by adhesions or hardening of the joint capsule, possibly involving shoulder joint muscles. It causes prolonged stiffness and pain and can be triggered by rheumatic diseases, osteoarthritis, injuries, or overuse. The condition often resolves on its own but can take up to three years to resolve.
Signs and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
- Initial pain is especially noticeable at night and may improve over time.
- Progressive stiffness and reduced range of motion.
- Stabbing pain during movements like dressing or bathing.
- Gradual resolution as the shoulder “thaws,” with stiffness and pain improving over time.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
- Secondary Form: Triggered by injury, rheumatic diseases, infections, inflammation, or osteoarthritis. Long-term immobilization after surgery or accidents is a common cause.
- Primary Form: Spontaneous onset, with unclear causes. Possible links to metabolic diseases like diabetes or hyperthyroidism.
Prevention
- Immobilization orthoses may be necessary after injury or surgery. Always consult your doctor about starting early gentle physiotherapy.
- Early mobilization prevents a secondary frozen shoulder.
- Maintain good posture and avoid one-sided stresses during activities or sports.
- If you have arthritis, seek early treatment to prevent complications.
Dislocation
What Is a Joint Dislocation?
A joint dislocation occurs when the surfaces of a joint separate, causing the bone to move out of its socket. The shoulder is particularly prone to dislocation due to its small socket relative to the humerus head, offering high mobility but less stability. Dislocations commonly affect the shoulder, elbow, or fingers, and while some cases of partial dislocation (subluxation) may correct themselves, complete dislocations require medical attention.
Dislocated Shoulder Symptoms
- Severe pain in the affected joint.
- Inability to move the joint.
- Swelling and visible joint deformity.
- Numbness or pins and needles if nerves are affected.
Doctors can identify dislocation through palpation and may use X-rays to check for additional injuries, such as tears in the joint capsule, ligament damage, or fractures.
How to Treat Dislocated Shoulders
- First Aid:
- Immobilize and cool the joint immediately.
- Reduction:
- Only a doctor can safely reposition the bone, often using local or short general anesthesia.
- If manual reduction fails, surgical reduction under general anesthesia is performed.
- Post-Reduction:
- Immobilization with supports or a cast to stabilize the joint.
- Rehabilitation:
- Early mobilization and physiotherapy to prevent complications like capsule shrinkage.
What Bracing Is Used to Treat Shoulder Injuries?
Medi® Shoulder Supports offer tailored solutions for various shoulder injuries. The Omomed Shoulder Support by medi®:
- Allows easy self-application.
- Provides controlled stabilization and support.
- Encourages early, cautious mobilization to prevent capsule shrinkage and restore movement.