Shoulder Impingement:
There are various structures within the shoulder joint complex that may
become impinged or “pinched” due to repetitive movements
using poor technique, when there is an imbalance of strength in the
shoulder region, doing too much too soon or just doing too much at one
time. Overuse injuries usually occur over time. If tendons become inflamed
due to impingement factors, tendonitis (inflammation of
the tendon) occurs. Sometimes tendons of the rotator cuff muscles of the
shoulder can become impinged; other times one of the tendons of the biceps
brachii (prominent muscle in the upper arm) can become irritated. If a
bursa (fluid-filled sac which protects bone and tendon) becomes inflamed
due to impingement, the overuse injury is termed bursitis
(inflammation of the bursa).
| Indicators: | Since overuse injuries occur over time, severity of signs and
symptoms develop in a progressive nature. - Initial symptoms of overuse shoulder injuries may include shoulder soreness when getting out of bed in the morning, or prior to practice. Usually once the shoulder is warmed up during practice, the pain goes away and performance is not affected. - As the injury progresses, the athlete will notice pain before, during, and sometimes after practice. Although the athlete may be able to practice/play, the performance may be affected due to pain. - Eventually, if left untreated, the athlete may not be able to move the arm during the day without pain and soreness. |
| Treatment: |
It is important to make sure athletes inform coaches and athletic
trainers when the shoulder becomes sore, even if the soreness is
minimal. It is IMPORTANT to take care of this injury
early. Once tendonitis or bursitis becomes established,
it is very difficult to heal the injured area and rest is generally
the main prescription. |
Reprinted with the permission of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.
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