Shoulder Injuries & Treatment

Shoulder and elbow

The shoulder joint is a shallow unstable joint that is prone to injury. The shoulder is stabilised by a ring of cartilage called the glenoid labrum and glenohumeral ligaments. A group of muscles called the rotator cuff are responsible for providing dynamic stability.

Shoulder injuries can occur in any sport as a result of direct impact, trauma or acute strain such as :

Rotator cuff tear
Glenoid labral tear
Fracture of the clavicle
A/C joint strain
Dislocation or subluxation

Other shoulder injuries are more chronic and develop over time, these can be secondary to traumatic injuries or due to repetitive strain or faulty biomechanics. Some common examples include:

Biceps tendonitis
Shoulder instability
Sub- acromial bursitis
Rotator cuff impingement
Post- operative shoulder conditions
Adhesive capsulitis - frozen shoulder

All shoulder injuries should be assessed Orthopaedically by an appropriately qualified Orthopaedic Physician such as an experienced structural or sports Osteopath or Orthopaedic Consultant. Following diagnosis an appropriate rehabilitation programme can be used to reduce pain and inflammation and restore full range of movement in the shoulder. Shoulder treatment regimes may include specific prescribed exercises, manual articulation of the shoulder and soft tissue release where appropriate, cryotherapy ( application of ice) and electrotherapy including ultrasound.