The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the human body. Many bones, ligaments, and muscles work together to keep the arm in place while providing flexibility. Because it is so complex, various injuries can occur to this joint. From dislocation to fractures, some injuries are more complex than others. Suppose you or someone you know has been injured this way. In that case, it is vital to get the proper diagnosis and treatment from Dr. Daniel Brereton in La Jolla, an experienced upper extremity specialist. Here are some of the most common shoulder injuries you need to know about.
Dislocations
Dislocations occur when bones of the joint move out of position and get stuck. This condition is typically caused by a single traumatic event, such as falling or getting hit in the shoulder area. If it is your first time experiencing a dislocation in your shoulder, you will likely be in a significant amount of pain and may hear a popping sound once it occurs. When this happens, you can tell that something is wrong. Once you get medical attention, the doctor will take x-rays of your shoulder to determine what kind of treatment is needed. If it’s a minor dislocation, the bones will be put back in place relatively quickly. More serious dislocations may require surgery or other procedures before being put back in place.
Fractures
As with any bone in your body, fractures of the bones that make up your shoulder can be expected. If you feel like something is wrong with how your arm feels, it could be because one of these bones has fractured and is now out of place. Fractures occur when the bone cracks or breaks. The fracture may look like a complete break, but it is vital to get a doctor’s opinion before assuming this. Depending on how severe the fracture is and which bone in your shoulder has broken, they will recommend the best course of action to put the bones back into place and allow them time to heal.
Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is a collection of four muscles that all come together in your shoulder to allow you to use your arm. If you repeatedly stress this area or injure it, the muscles can become damaged and tear. This is common among people who play contact sports, such as football. There are tears in the tendons that allow the muscles to function correctly when this happens. For example, a SLAP tear is when the tendon in your shoulder has been torn from the bone. Depending on how bad this injury is and how big a tear there will determine if surgery or other procedures are needed for treatment.
Bursitis
Bursitis is another common injury that can occur in the shoulder. There are several bursae located near the rotator cuff and around the tendons and muscles of your arm and shoulder. Depending on where you feel pain, this could be due to an irritation or inflammation of one of these bursae. Although it isn’t a severe injury, it can be pretty painful and frustrating to deal with. If you notice pain in your shoulder area, especially if this is accompanied by swelling, get yourself checked out by a doctor so they can provide the proper treatment.
In summary, shoulder injuries are common, especially among people who frequently use their arms. Suppose you have been experiencing pain in your shoulder for an extended period. In that case, it is essential to seek medical attention right away so that the cause can be diagnosed and treated before it becomes worse.
