Overusing the shoulder muscles, or the rotator cuff that surrounds the shoulder joint, can cause pain and disability. The joint and bursa themselves can be injured through sprain or dislocation. Treatment for pain and inflammation cannot be withheld, or the discomfort and motion restriction will only grow. Immobilizing the shoulder temporarily and practicing first aid will relieve initial symptoms and promote healing. A professionally supervised return to activity or additional medical treatment may be necessary for moderate to severe muscle strains or joint sprains.
First Aid
Pain and limited range-of-motion can come on suddenly or over time. If a certain movement caused the shoulder muscle or joint injury, such as overhead lifting or sports play, it should be ceased immediately. When symptoms first arise, the University of Buffalo Sports Medicine group suggests applying ice packs for 20 minutes at a time, every three hours or so. Patients should continue this form of inflammation and pain relief until swelling goes away.
Rest
The rotator cuff works in harmony with the rest of the body, so movement in another area may cause pain in the injured shoulder muscles or joint. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) relates that rest often brings substantial pain relief in cases of bursitis or tendonitis. Immobilizing and supporting the shoulder through use of a sling or elastic wrap also reduces discomfort and allows the body to heal.
Pain Relief
Pain relief is an active treatment toward recovery that shifts the body’s defense mechanisms to self-repair efforts. Prior to getting a medical exam, patients can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. The UMMC notes that more severe rotator cuff injuries may warrant prescription NSAIDs or an injectable corticosteroid to break the pain and inflammation cycle.
Physical Therapy
A day or two of rest is the maximum recommended suspension of exercise for injured shoulder muscles and other tissue. Doctors may prescribe range-of-motion stretches that can be performed at home to restore flexibility and keep muscles from becoming too weak. The National Institutes of Health suggests rehabilitative exercises guided by a professional physical therapist to assist in safe, complete recovery. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate the changing needs of recovering patients.
Arthroscopic Surgery
A tear in the rotator cuff muscles or bursa, or fractures in the shoulder joint or arm bone may require surgical repair. The University of Buffalo Sports Medicine group reports, however, that minor tears can heal on their own without surgical intervention.
