Shoulder Sprain & Shoulder Strain
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The shoulder is a complex and frequently injured joint, and sprains and strains are among the most common types of injuries it can sustain. These injuries typically result from trauma, such as a fall, a sports-related accident, or overuse. While both conditions involve damage to soft tissues and share similar symptoms, they affect different structures within the shoulder joint. A proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is essential to ensure the correct treatment and a full recovery.
What Is Shoulder Sprain vs. Shoulder Strain?
- Shoulder Sprain: This injury occurs when a ligament in the shoulder is stretched too far or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that connect bones to one another and stabilize joints. The severity of a sprain is graded based on the extent of the ligament damage.
- Shoulder Strain: A strain, often called a “pulled muscle,” involves the overstretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon. Tendons are the fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint, is a common site for strains.
Shoulder Sprain and Strain Symptom
Both shoulder sprains and strains share several symptoms that can indicate damage to the soft tissues of the shoulder joint:
- Pain or tenderness in the shoulder.
- Swelling or bruising around the injured area.
- A feeling of instability or weakness in the shoulder.
- Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to move the arm normally.
Certain symptoms may be more specific to one type of injury:
- A pop heard at the moment of injury is more commonly associated with a sprain, indicating a ligament tear.
- Muscle spasms or weakness are more indicative of a strain, as they involve damage to the muscle tissue.
Causes of Shoulder Sprain and Strain
- Falls: Falling onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder can cause significant trauma.
- Sports Injuries: Activities that involve repetitive arm motions or forceful impacts, such as baseball, football, swimming, and rugby, are common culprits.
- Repetitive Strain: Overusing the shoulder through continuous, repetitive motions can lead to either a sprain or a strain over time.
- Lifting Heavy Objects: Improperly lifting heavy items can put excessive stress on the shoulder’s muscles and tendons, leading to a strain.
Risk Factors
- Athletes: Individuals who participate in sports that place high stress on the shoulder are at increased risk.
- Occupations: Jobs that involve strenuous physical labor or repetitive arm movements can increase the risk of injury.
- Sudden Increase in Activity: Abruptly intensifying a workout routine or starting a new sport without proper preparation can lead to injury.
- Poor Form: Using incorrect technique during exercise or sports can place undue stress on the shoulder joint.
- Lack of Rest: Not allowing adequate time for rest and recovery between intense physical activities can make the shoulder more vulnerable to injury.
Diagnosis
- Physical Exam: A healthcare provider will physically examine the injured shoulder, checking for signs of swelling, bruising, and tenderness. They will also assess the range of motion and stability of the joint.
- Patient History: The provider will ask about the circumstances of the injury, when symptoms started, and any pain experienced.
- Imaging Tests: To rule out other injuries like fractures or dislocations and to visualize soft tissue damage, a doctor may order imaging tests such as:
- X-ray: Used to view bones and check for fractures.
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of soft tissues like muscles and tendons.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons.
Treatment
Here are treatments to relieve shoulder sprain & shoulder strain:
Self-Care
- R.I.C.E. Method: This is the most common at-home treatment for mild to moderate sprains and strains.
- Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain and give the shoulder time to heal.
- Ice: Apply a cold pack to the injured area for 15 minutes a few times a day to reduce pain and swelling.
- Compression: Use a compression bandage to help minimize swelling. A healthcare provider can show you how to apply it correctly.
- Elevation: Keep the shoulder elevated above heart level as much as possible to reduce swelling.
Medical Care
- Immobilization: In some cases, a sling or brace may be recommended to support the shoulder and prevent movement while it heals.
- Physical Therapy: To prevent stiffness and restore full range of motion and strength, a healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy.
- Surgery: Surgical intervention is rarely needed but may be considered for severe injuries, such as a complete tear of a ligament or tendon, or in cases where there are other complications like a fracture or a dislocated shoulder.
