Your shoulders depend on a system of bones and muscles to perform motion, but these systems can sustain injuries. Activities such as sports, repetitive wear and tear, or accidents could lead to shoulder injuries. Any of these incidents may affect how you perform simple activities such as lifting. Here are five treatment options for a shoulder injury:
Immobilization
Immobilization helps to manage inflammation and alleviate pain when an injury like a shoulder separation occurs. The approach helps to heal the injured ligaments spontaneously, with a doctor using a sling or a brace to immobilize the shoulder. The extent of your shoulder injury and your age might determine the immobilization approach that a doctor uses. Immobilization gives the shoulder the chance to rest and heal after physical trauma. As the injured shoulder remains inactive, it allows the body to form new tissue. Immobilization also promotes the recovery of the soft tissues around the shoulder. Using the immobilization approach helps the healing parts of the shoulder align and speeds up the recovery process by preventing re-injury.
Medication and Steroid Injections
Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or remedies containing diclofenac can help treat shoulder injuries. Similar to these drugs, steroid injections work by reducing inflammation, which could help you move your shoulder more comfortably. The injections are administered using local analgesics to decrease discomfort in the shoulder area. Steroids might also help diminish pain during physiotherapy appointments. Your doctor can perform steroid injections using ultrasound imaging, which helps to evaluate the inflamed tissues and inject the right part of the shoulder.
Physical Therapy
Physiotherapy is frequently used to reduce shoulder pain through stretching and strengthening exercises, massage, and other therapeutic procedures. A physical therapist helps restore shoulder functionality and can recommend therapy procedures depending on the extent of your shoulder injury. Some of the procedures include muscle-strengthening exercises for enhanced coordination and easing stiffness.
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
If the rotator cuff is damaged, the doctor can recommend arthroscopic surgery to restore it. The procedure includes implanting an arthroscope into the shoulder joint to show pictures that guide the surgery process. Arthroscopic repair is a less invasive procedure that aims to repair the rotator cuff. The surgery can help to reduce stiffness, regain strength, and restore shoulder function.
Shoulder Replacement
Doctors might recommend shoulder replacement procedures depending on the type of damage occurring in your shoulder. One replacement option includes anatomic total shoulder replacement, which involves replacing both the ball and socket. Another option includes reverse total shoulder replacement, where the ball and the socket get replaced, but the implants are reversible. This procedure is ideal for a severe rotator cuff injury. Your doctor may also suggest a partial replacement that involves replacing only the ball or the socket of the shoulder.
Consult an Orthopedic Expert for Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries can become more noticeable as discomfort and reduced functionality increase. Stiffness and numbness can signify that you need shoulder treatment. If you suspect any trauma or injury on your shoulders, consult a reliable orthopedic specialist.