The heavy weights and high repetitions involved in the workout regimen of a bodybuilder may put the muscles, tendons and joints of the shoulder under extreme amounts of stress. Symptoms such as pain, inflammation or immobility can interrupt your training schedule, so the correct diagnosis and treatment of your shoulder injury is essential to helping you stay on track.
Anatomy
The shoulder is composed of two bones, the scapula and humerus. The cavity of the shoulder joint is cushioned by articular cartilage that covers the surfaces of the humerus bone and end of the scapula bone, which is called the glenoid. The scapula bone extends around the back of the shoulder joint forming a roof-like structure called the acromion and around the front to form the coracoid process. A fibrous cartilage, called the labrum, surrounds the glenoid. The bicep and the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff help to support the shoulder.
Causes
Injuries occur frequently in athletes who perform repetitive overhead lifts because of inflammation or tearing of one or more of the muscles and tendons that make up the shoulder joint. Orthopaedic surgeons separate shoulder problems into two categories. Instability problems occur when one of the shoulder joints moves or is forced out of its normal position. The second category includes injuries resulting from impingement or the excessive rubbing of the shoulder muscle against the top part of the shoulder bone.
Types
There are several shoulder injuries that commonly occur with bodybuilders. Some common instability-related shoulder problems are dislocation, separation and tears of the rotator cuff. Common problems associated with impingement-type symptoms are bursitis, tendinitis, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff disease and arthritis. If you are experiencing shoulder problems as a result of impingement or instability, you may encounter inflammation of the joint as well as possible immobility of your arm.
Treatment
Often the treatment for individuals who are experiencing shoulder pain after a bodybuilding workout consists of RICE therapy. The acronym stands for resting, icing, compression and elevation of the injured shoulder. Over-the-counter or doctor-prescribed anti-inflammatory medications may provide relief from pain. When the pain subsides, begin a rehabilitation program that is designed to use strengthening exercises.
Warning
If you experience symptoms of a shoulder injury, begin RICE therapy as a precautionary method. Seek the advice of a medical professional if the problem occurs frequently. Improper lifting technique or bad form when lifting heavy weights can lead to shoulder injury.
