Treatments for a shoulder injury may focus on muscle, tendon, ligament, bursa or bone tissue, but all share a common goal of inflammation and pain relief. Shoulder strains, sprains or dislocations may result in swelling, throbbing and muscle spasms. These are signs that the body is attempting to stabilize the rotator cuff area that surrounds the shoulder joint. Mild strains, sprains, tendinitis and bursitis should heal naturally, but severe tissue damage or fractures may require surgical repair.
Activity Suspension
Many shoulder injury cases are due to the long-term strain of overuse. Continuing with the motions that caused the damage will only prolong pain and weakness. The NYU Langone Medical Center reports that rest is an important treatment for shoulder strain and disability that should be guided by pain parameters. Rest should continue until pain disappears. That is the body’s signal that recovery is underway.
Ice Therapy
Cold temperatures offset the heat of inflammation and discourage swelling. The University of Buffalo (UB) Sports Medicine group prescribes ice therapy treatments for athletes and others who suffer from shoulder strains, tears, dislocations, separations or stress fractures. A chilled reusable gel pack can be used for swelling and pain relief for up to 30 minutes, 4 times a day.
Posture Aids
When tissue is stretched or torn in a shoulder injury, musculoskeletal balance is disturbed. Placing more stress on the muscles, tendons and ligaments can further degrade the damaged tissue. According to the UB Sports Medicine group, home treatment should include the practice of balanced seated posture, with the head perpendicular to the shoulders. The use of posture aids, such as a lumbar cushion, neck pillow or stabilizing shoulder wrap will help patients achieve “neutral” shoulder posture.
Pain Relief Options
A shoulder injury can be very painful, especially during motion. The Cleveland Clinic reports that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can be taken along with other nonmedicinal treatments for pain relief. If the combination is still insufficient, a doctor may administer cortisone or anesthetic injections at the injury site.
Other Medical Interventions
Physical manipulation and surgery may be needed to reset a dislocated shoulder or surgically repair a shoulder strain tear that won’t heal on its own. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons relates that arthroscopic surgery may be used for some shoulder injuries.
Activity Resumption
After surgery or after the pain of a moderately damaged shoulder is gone, range-of-motion exercises should begin. The UB Sports Medicine group notes that physical therapy can help strengthen the bicep and rotator cuff muscles to restore fitness.
