Athletic Shoulder Injury Causes and Treatments

Did you know shoulder injuries are more prevalent in sports and occupations that involve repetitive overhead motions? Shoulder injuries can be debilitating, and are pretty common, affecting up to 20% of the population.

How does an athletic shoulder injury happen?

These injuries can happen in many ways, either through repetitive stress or from a high energy injury or impact to the shoulder. Sudden pain can be felt, there may be a pop, and loss of function to the shoulder may immediately follow.

What are some common athletic shoulder injuries?

The most common injuries that I see are from repetitive stress and strain to the shoulder. This can cause inflammation of tendons, ligaments and muscles. More sudden injuries to the shoulder can cause tears, instability and even bone bruise or break.

When should I see a doctor for my shoulder pain?

Mild pain is usually effectively treated with a brief period of rest, ice, and Tylenol or anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen. If your shoulder pain continues after a few days, if you are unable to do basic activities or return to sports, I would recommend giving us a call for evaluation.

What can I expect during a visit with an orthopedic sports medicine specialist?

First, we will discuss with you how the injury happened and obtain relevant medical information to the injury. We will then complete a physical examination and likely obtain some X-rays to arrive at a diagnosis. If a more serious injury is expected, we may order more studies like an MRI. Most patients can be treated successfully without surgery, which may include anti-inflammatories, home exercises or physical therapy and potentially injections.

If you're suffering from an athletic shoulder injury or shoulder pain, whether you are an athlete or not, call us at CHI Health Orthopedics at (402) 717-0820 to set up an appointment with one of our orthopedic sports medicine specialists.