Avoiding Shoulder Injuries

The shoulder is composed of the shoulder blade (scapula), collarbone (clavicle), and upper arm bone (humerus). With two joints, the glenohumeral and acromioclavicular, the shoulder is widely considered to be the most unstable joint. It can move in multiple directions and allows you to apply force or pressure, which is why the shoulder is more prone to injury than any other joint in the human body.

There are a number of ways shoulder injuries can occur in athletes. Repetitive arm motions, like throwing, swimming, or weight lifting, can contribute to several different conditions.

These conditions include bursitis, rotator cuff tendonitis, rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, and shoulder instability. However, our doctors say that performing proper warm-ups before activity and doing strength training exercises can decrease the potential for injury.

Strength training exercises using free weights or exercise bands can increase stability in and around the shoulder joint. Likewise, warm-ups that include arm movements in a circular motion, both forward and backward, will ensure the joints are prepared for a workout, practice, or game and will help you avoid injury.

Proper treatment of shoulder pain relies on an accurate diagnosis of the cause of the pain. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, medical attention should be sought. The doctors at Sierra Pacific Orthopedics can assess your symptoms and create a customized treatment plan to fit your needs. To make an appointment, please call (559) 256-5200 or request an appointment online.