Sports Injuries

Common Shoulder Injuries

• Shoulder Impingement

  Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff are compressed as they pass through the shoulder joint, often due to repetitive overhead movements or anatomical variations. Patients typically experience pain when lifting the arm, especially between 60° and 120° of motion. Conservative management includes activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy focused on strengthening and improving posture. Severe or unresponsive cases may require arthroscopic decompression surgery.

• Calcific Tendonitis

  Calcific tendonitis is a condition where calcium deposits form in the shoulder tendons, most commonly in the rotator cuff. These deposits can cause sudden, intense shoulder pain and reduced movement. The exact cause is unclear, but overuse and age-related changes may contribute. Non-surgical treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and ultrasound-guided needle aspiration. In persistent cases, arthroscopic removal of the calcium deposits may be recommended to restore mobility and relieve pain.

• Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

  Rotator Cuff Tendonitis is irritation or inflammation of shoulder tendons, often from overuse or injury. It causes pain, weakness, and trouble lifting the arm. Treatment includes rest, gentle exercises, medication, and sometimes injections or minor surgery for lasting relief.

• Subacromial Bursitis

  Subacromial bursitis occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder tendons, becomes inflamed. This condition often develops alongside rotator cuff tendonitis or impingement. Patients usually report tenderness, swelling, and pain with overhead or reaching movements. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy. In persistent cases, corticosteroid injections or minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures may be considered to relieve symptoms.

• Labral Tears

  The labrum is a cartilage structure that forms a cup for the ball of the shoulder joint. Tears in the labrum can result from trauma or repetitive motion and may cause pain, instability, and a feeling of the shoulder “giving way.” Treatment may involve physical therapy or surgical repair, depending on the tear’s location and severity.

• SLAP Tear

  A SLAP tear is a tear in the top part of the shoulder’s cartilage (labrum) where the biceps tendon attaches. It can happen due to falls, sports, or repeated overhead movements. Symptoms may include shoulder pain, clicking, or a feeling that the shoulder is unstable. Treatment can involve exercises and physiotherapy, and in some cases, minimally invasive surgery to repair the tear.

• Biceps Tendonitis

  Biceps Tendonitis is inflammation of the biceps tendon in the shoulder, often from overuse or injury. It causes pain, tenderness, and difficulty lifting the arm. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, gentle exercises, and sometimes injections if symptoms persist.

• Rotator Cuff Tears

  The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Tears in the rotator cuff can occur due to acute injuries or degenerative changes over time. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Treatment options range from conservative methods like rest and physical therapy to surgical interventions, depending on the severity of the tear.

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

  Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, leading to a significant reduction in movement. The exact cause is unknown, but it often develops after an injury or surgery that leads to decreased shoulder movement. Treatment focuses on pain management and physical therapy to restore motion.

• Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injuries

  The AC joint is located at the top of the shoulder and can be injured due to falls or direct blows. Injuries range from mild sprains to severe dislocations. Treatment varies based on the injury’s severity and may include rest, physical therapy, or surgical intervention.

• Shoulder Arthritis

  Arthritis in the shoulder joint can cause pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Osteoarthritis is the most common form, often resulting from wear and tear over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, can also affect the shoulder joints. Management includes medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, joint replacement surgery.

• Anterior Shoulder Instability

  Anterior instability occurs when the upper arm bone slips out of its socket in the front of the shoulder. This often results from trauma, such as a fall or sports-related injury, and is most common in young, active adults. Patients may experience repeated dislocations, pain, or a sensation that the shoulder is “giving way.” Treatment ranges from targeted physiotherapy to strengthen the stabilizing muscles, to surgical repair in cases of recurrent dislocations or high-demand activity.