Hitting, setting and spiking a ball during a volleyball game can be exciting -- but at the same time volleyball can take a toll on your shoulders. Although the shoulders have the greatest range of motion of any of the joints in your body, they are susceptible to pain and injuries. If you experience persistent shoulder pain from playing volleyball, contact your physician.
Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Rotator cuff tendinopathy affects your rotator cuff muscles, which are the muscles that control the rotation of your shoulders. This condition is likely to occur when you place a large amount of strain on your shoulder or position your arm above your head frequently. The onset of rotator cuff tendinopathy is likely to be gradual, and the inflammation of the tendons in your shoulder can lead to pain and restricted range of motion. To treat this condition, you should rest and ice your shoulder for a few days. If symptoms subside, you may return to volleyball. If pain persists, you should contact your doctor in order to rule out a more serious condition.
Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability is often the result of repetitive motions of the shoulder. Instability can also occur as the result of a volleyball player or other athlete ignoring an injury and playing through the pain. Instability can also occur as the result of a previous shoulder dislocation. Instability can cause the shoulder joint to move outside of its normal position which can create pain as you raise your arm. You may also feel as though your shoulder is slipping out of its normal positioning. Shoulder instability is often treated with stretching and strengthening exercises in order to promote the normal positioning of your shoulder.
Shoulder Impingement
A shoulder impingement is caused by excessive rubbing of your shoulder muscles against the top portion of your shoulder blade. Impingements are often the result of excessive overhead arm movements and are considered an overuse injury. A shoulder impingement causes pain and inflammation in your shoulder joint. This condition should be examined by a physician. Ignoring a shoulder impingement can lead to more serious shoulder pain and conditions. Shoulder impingements can be treated with rest, ice, activity modification and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be performed to treat the impingement.
Shoulder Sprain
A shoulder sprain is the result of moving your shoulder muscles outside of their normal range of motion. They can occur as the result of a direct blow to the shoulder, twisting your arm or falling on an outstretched arm. Participation in sports and inadequate flexibility in your muscles and ligaments can put you at risk for a shoulder sprain. If you sprain your shoulder, you will likely be able to recall exactly when it happened. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, redness, warmth and limited mobility of the shoulder. Shoulder sprains are treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, bracing and physical therapy.
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