This article was created with AI technology for the purposes of educating readers living in remote communities without convenient access to a physician or a physical therapist. The content of this article was reviewed before publication, by Canadian Orthopaedic Physiotherapist Terry Kane
The content in this article is not a substitute for seeing a licensed physician and readers are encouraged to see a physician or physical therapist as soon as possible if they experience increased pain.
The shoulder is one of the most important joints in the body. It helps people lift, throw, push, pull, and carry objects every day. Because the shoulder moves in many directions, it can also get hurt easily. Shoulder injuries are common in sports, work, and even during normal daily activities. Some injuries happen suddenly, while others develop slowly over time. Learning about these injuries can help people understand how to prevent them and when to seek treatment. Here are the top five shoulder injuries and how doctors and therapists treat them. shouldertriage.com
1. Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear is an injury to one or more of the muscles and tendons that help move and support the shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that keep the shoulder joint stable and allow you to lift and rotate your arm.
A tear can happen suddenly from a fall, lifting something heavy, or a sports injury. It can also develop slowly over time because of wear and tear as people get older.
Common symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include:
- Shoulder pain
- Weakness when lifting or reaching with the arm
- Pain when reaching overhead
- Difficulty putting on a shirt or jacket
- Pain when lying on the affected shoulder
- Clicking or popping sensations in the shoulder
Some people may have a small tear and only experience mild symptoms, while others with larger tears may have significant pain and weakness.
Healthcare professionals may diagnose a rotator cuff tear by examining the shoulder and using imaging tests such as ultrasound, X-rays, or MRI scans.
Many rotator cuff tears can be treated without surgery. Treatment often includes physiotherapy, exercises to improve strength and movement, activity modification, and pain-relief strategies recommended by a healthcare professional.
In some cases, especially when the tear is large or causes significant weakness, surgery may be recommended to repair the damaged tendon.
Recovery can take several weeks or months, depending on the size of the tear and the type of treatment used.
It is important to seek medical attention if shoulder pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the arm.
Remember: Shoulder pain and weakness, especially when lifting the arm, may be signs of a rotator cuff tear. Early assessment and treatment can help improve recovery and return to normal activities.
2. Shoulder Dislocation
A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone pops out of its normal position in the shoulder joint. The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, which also makes it one of the most likely joints to dislocate.
A shoulder dislocation is usually caused by a fall, a sports injury, a motor vehicle collision, or another sudden injury that forces the shoulder out of place.
Common symptoms of a shoulder dislocation include:
- Severe shoulder pain
- A visible change in the shape of the shoulder
- Inability to move the arm normally
- Swelling and bruising around the shoulder
- Weakness in the arm
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
When the shoulder dislocates, the ligaments, muscles, and other tissues around the joint may also be stretched or injured.
Healthcare professionals can usually diagnose a shoulder dislocation through a physical examination and X-rays. The shoulder must be carefully put back into place by a trained healthcare professional. People should not try to put the shoulder back in themselves.
After the shoulder is relocated, treatment may include wearing a sling, controlling pain, and participating in physiotherapy to restore strength, movement, and stability.
Most people recover well, but the shoulder can sometimes become more likely to dislocate again, especially in younger athletes.
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if a shoulder dislocation is suspected. Delaying treatment can increase pain and the risk of further injury.
Remember: A shoulder that looks out of place and is very painful after an injury may be dislocated. Prompt medical treatment can help protect the joint and improve recovery.
3. Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Over time, the shoulder becomes harder to move, making everyday activities more difficult.
The medical name for frozen shoulder is adhesive capsulitis. It happens when the tissue around the shoulder joint becomes thick, tight, and inflamed, which limits movement.
Common symptoms of frozen shoulder include:
- Shoulder pain
- Stiffness in the shoulder
- Difficulty reaching overhead
- Trouble reaching behind the back
- Difficulty getting dressed or brushing hair
- Pain that may be worse at night
Frozen shoulder usually develops slowly and often goes through three stages:
- Painful Stage – The shoulder becomes painful and starts to lose movement.
- Frozen Stage – The pain may improve, but the shoulder becomes very stiff.
- Recovery Stage – Movement gradually returns over time.
Frozen shoulder is more common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It can sometimes develop after a shoulder injury, surgery, or a period when the shoulder has not been moved much.
Healthcare professionals usually diagnose frozen shoulder by examining the shoulder and checking how well it moves. X-rays or other imaging tests may be used to rule out other problems.
Treatment often includes physiotherapy, stretching exercises, staying active, and pain-relief strategies recommended by a healthcare professional. The goal is to reduce pain and gradually improve movement.
Recovery can take several months to a few years, but most people eventually regain much of their shoulder movement and function.
It is important to seek medical attention if shoulder pain and stiffness are making daily activities difficult or if symptoms continue to worsen.
Remember: Frozen shoulder causes pain and stiffness that slowly limits shoulder movement. Early treatment and regular exercises can help improve recovery and restore movement.. shouldertriage.com
4. Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is a condition that occurs when the tendons or soft tissues in the shoulder become pinched or squeezed during arm movements. This can cause pain, irritation, and difficulty moving the shoulder.
The shoulder is made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to allow movement. When there is not enough space for the tendons to move freely, they can become inflamed and painful.
Common symptoms of shoulder impingement include:
- Pain on the front or side of the shoulder
- Pain when lifting the arm overhead
- Pain when reaching behind the back
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Difficulty performing daily activities such as dressing or reaching for objects
- Pain that may be worse at night
Shoulder impingement can develop from repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, muscle weakness, sports injuries, or normal wear and tear over time.
Healthcare professionals usually diagnose shoulder impingement by examining the shoulder and assessing movement and strength. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be used.
Many people improve without surgery. Treatment often includes physiotherapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, improving posture, and pain-relief strategies recommended by a healthcare professional.
Staying active and following an exercise program can help reduce pain, improve shoulder movement, and prevent future problems.
It is important to seek medical attention if shoulder pain is severe, follows a significant injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the arm.
Remember: Shoulder pain that gets worse when lifting your arm overhead may be a sign of shoulder impingement. Early treatment and exercise can help improve recovery and keep your shoulder moving well.
5. Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is a condition that occurs when a small fluid-filled sac in the shoulder becomes irritated and inflamed. These sacs are called bursae, and they help reduce friction between bones, muscles, and tendons so the shoulder can move smoothly.
When a bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and make it harder to move the shoulder comfortably.
Common symptoms of shoulder bursitis include:
- Pain on the top or side of the shoulder
- Pain when lifting the arm
- Pain when reaching overhead
- Tenderness around the shoulder
- Swelling in some cases
- Pain that may be worse at night or when lying on the affected shoulder
Shoulder bursitis can develop from repetitive movements, overuse, sports activities, poor posture, a shoulder injury, or normal wear and tear over time.
Healthcare professionals usually diagnose shoulder bursitis by asking about symptoms and examining the shoulder. Sometimes imaging tests such as ultrasound, X-rays, or MRI scans may be used to help confirm the diagnosis.
Many people recover without surgery. Treatment often includes rest from painful activities, physiotherapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, ice, and pain-relief strategies recommended by a healthcare professional.
Staying active within comfortable limits and following a rehabilitation program can help improve shoulder movement and reduce pain.
It is important to seek medical attention if shoulder pain is severe, follows a significant injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the arm.
The good news is that most people with shoulder bursitis improve with proper treatment and can return to their normal activities.
Remember: Pain on the side of the shoulder that becomes worse when lifting the arm may be a sign of shoulder bursitis. Early treatment can help reduce pain and restore normal movement.
Preventing Shoulder Injuries
Although not all shoulder injuries can be prevented, there are ways to lower the risk. Warming up before sports or exercise helps prepare the muscles and joints for movement. Stretching and strengthening exercises keep the shoulder stable and flexible. Good posture also reduces stress on the shoulders. People should avoid lifting objects that are too heavy and use proper techniques when carrying or throwing items.
Getting treatment early is important because untreated shoulder injuries can worsen over time. Doctors, physical therapists, and athletic trainers can help patients recover safely and return to normal activities.
Conclusion
Shoulder injuries are common because the shoulder joint moves in many directions and is used every day. Rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocations, frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, and bursitis are among the most frequent shoulder problems. These injuries can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty moving the arm. Treatments may include rest, medicine, physical therapy, injections, or surgery depending on the severity of the injury. By understanding these conditions and taking steps to protect the shoulder, people can stay active and healthy.