Lean on Me

Continued...

Traumatic injuries.

Most traumatic shoulder injuries occur from a direct blow to the point of the shoulder or when a fall on an outstretched hand transmits force up into the shoulder. The damage can vary from a bruised joint to broken bones and torn ligaments.

Traumatic injuries also include shoulder separations, sprains of the AC joint, usually treated non-surgically; and dislocations, which occur when the humeral head is forced out of the shallow socket of the glenoid fossa. Shoulder dislocations usually require surgery.

Prevention is the best medicine.

Shoulder soreness is usually caused by weak muscles, improper technique while lifting or throwing, a prior injury inadequate stretching of a stiff joint or laxity in the shoulder joint.

It is very important to keep the muscle groups of the shoulder balanced in strength and flexibility. For instance, pitchers and tennis players develop strength and flexibility for overhand throwing, but they may be weak and inflexible in the muscles used for the pulling motion of swimming.

The road to recovery. It is best to recognize overuse injuries early and deal with them before they become too serious.

Stopping the pain and inflammation early in the cycle gives you the best chance for a full recovery.

Often, shoulder pain leads the athlete to stop using the joint. Inactivity however; can lead to a downward spiral of pain, weakness and immobility. Instead, athletes should do proper stretching and strengthening exercises to restore muscle balance.

Whether an injury is caused by overuse or a direct trauma, the steps to recovery will be similar - ice, stretching, strengthening and anti-inflammatory medication.

What are the most effective methods of implementing these treatments?

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Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
Nutrition
Exercise
Common Medical Problems
Dental Health
Emergency!
Infectious Disease
Sexual Health
Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Environmental Health
Prevention