Don't Let Shoulder Pain Sideline Summer Fun

Spring fever!

After what seemed like exceptionally long winter, spring is finally here! Many of us are getting out to enjoy the sunshine and reengage in our favorite outside sporting activities.

Whether your “go-to” sport is baseball, softball, tennis, volleyball or basketball, they all carry one common thread: dynamic overhead use of the shoulder. 

Getting back in the game

Improperly preparing to play before going in full speed can lead to soreness, pain and possible injury. Having a plan and some knowledge regarding shoulders and returning to your activity is important. 

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body and as a result there can be many different causes of shoulder pain. Shoulder pain itself can be debilitating and can cause significant limitations in one’s daily life.

The source of the pain

Shoulder pain may result from a variety of causes, whether it’s a falling injury, straining to reach an object, lifting something heavy, or throwing a ball. Shoulder pain or problems can also be a result of gradual irritation over time. 

Areas and structures of the shoulder that can be affected by overhead sporting activities include the following:

Tendonitis/Tendinopathy

Tendonitis/tendinopathy is an inflammation of a tendon. As this condition progresses, it becomes very painful and difficult to move the shoulder.

Bursitis

Bursitis is an irritation or inflammation of the fluid filled sack or “bursa” that cushions the tendons and joints. When the bursa becomes irritated the shoulder may become painful and stiff.

Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the tissue or cartilage which protects the joints wears down.

Rotator Cuff

Rotator cuff tear or injury can occur when the muscles that move the shoulder joint weaken or tear, leading to weakness, pain and loss of motion.

Postural Dysfunction

Postural dysfunction is a common cause of shoulder pain. The increased use of computers and extended periods sitting often leads to muscle imbalances in the shoulder which over time leads to injury and pain.

Impingement

Impingement is a common condition of the shoulder where the shoulder tendons and bursa are impinged from the bones of the shoulder, leading to inflammation and pain. This often leads to pain with reaching overhead and lifting, carrying as well as challenges with dynamic overhead sporting activities.

Finding pain relief

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, first, consider the activity you are about to perform and analyze the physical components. Breaking it down into manageable increments where you modify speed, repetition, intensity and range of motion can be the key to preparing your body for moving at your highest level.

However, if you already gave it your all without properly preparing and are now experiencing some shoulder pain, here a few things which may help you reduce your pain and get back to your active summer fun as quickly as possible:

Rest/Cold Pack

It is important when you are experiencing shoulder pain to limit your activity and rest so your shoulder can heal. Apply cold packs to your shoulder to help decrease pain and inflammation in the joints and muscles. To prevent damage to skin and surrounding tissue, cold packs should only be applied in 15 minute intervals.

Stretch

If you don’t have increased pain with movement, stretching and increasing the range of motion of your shoulder can help loosen up the muscles in your shoulder and decrease pain.

Physical Therapy

If your shoulder pain persists, it may be time to seek treatment. Physical therapy consists of hands-on treatment to loosen muscles and joints, soft tissue mobilization, education on proper posture and movement to decrease pain, instruction on stretching and strengthening exercises to restore mobility and strength.

If you have ongoing pain and need some help with a diagnosis and finding relief, talk with your Methodist Physicians Clinic primary care provider or physical therapist.