Introduction
Shoulder injuries are common among active young adults in India, especially with the popularity of sports and gym culture on the rise. From cricket matches to high-intensity fitness classes, the shoulder joint endures significant strain. When shoulder injuries occur, they can disrupt daily life and sports participation, often requiring medical intervention. Orthopedic doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating these injuries, employing a variety of methods tailored to individual needs.
This blog will cover the top five shoulder injuries affecting Indian young adults and discuss orthopedic treatments for each.
1. Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears are common among young adults engaged in activities like weightlifting and cricket, where overhead shoulder use is frequent. These tears may result from a single traumatic event or repetitive stress over time.
Symptoms
- Persistent pain and weakness.
- Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
Orthopedic Treatment Options
- Conservative Treatment: Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications are typically the first steps, along with physical therapy.
- Surgical Repair: In severe cases, arthroscopic surgery is performed to repair the torn tendons. Recovery can take several months, but it’s effective for long-term healing.
2. Shoulder Dislocation
Shoulder dislocations can occur in sports like kabaddi, basketball, or even during falls while trekking. The joint is forced out of the socket, resulting in intense pain and instability.
Symptoms
- Severe pain and visible deformity.
- Inability to move the arm.
Orthopedic Treatment Options
- Closed Reduction: Orthopedic doctors carefully manipulate the shoulder back into position.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises help restore stability.
- Surgery: In cases of recurrent dislocations, surgery may be needed to tighten the shoulder’s ligaments and tendons.
3. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement, or “swimmer’s shoulder,” is common among young adults who engage in repetitive overhead movements, such as swimming, badminton, or tennis. This injury occurs when the shoulder blades press against the tendons and bursa, causing pain.
Symptoms
- Pain during lifting or overhead movements.
- Weakness and restricted movement.
Orthopedic Treatment Options
- Rest and Ice Therapy: Reduces inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Includes exercises to improve shoulder posture.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can relieve pain if symptoms persist.
4. Labral Tears
Labral tears affect the cartilage around the shoulder socket, providing stability. Sports involving throwing motions or heavy lifting can cause these tears.
Symptoms
- A catching or locking sensation in the shoulder.
- Pain with specific arm movements.
Orthopedic Treatment Options
- Conservative Treatment: Includes rest and physical therapy.
- Arthroscopic Surgery: In severe cases, orthopedic doctors may use minimally invasive surgery to repair the tear, restoring stability.
5. Biceps Tendonitis
Biceps tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the shoulder, commonly caused by overuse in activities like weightlifting and cricket.
Symptoms
- Tenderness near the shoulder joint.
- Pain that worsens with lifting or pushing.
Orthopedic Treatment Options
- Activity Modification: Reducing the frequency of activities that aggravate the shoulder.
- Physical Therapy and Anti-inflammatory Medications: Help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Tenodesis Surgery: For severe cases, the biceps tendon may be surgically reattached to relieve pain.
Conclusion
For Indian young adults passionate about sports and fitness, it’s essential to recognize early signs of shoulder injuries and seek medical intervention. Orthopedic doctors offer a range of treatments, from conservative care to advanced surgical options, tailored to restore shoulder function and reduce pain. By understanding these common injuries and treatment options, young adults can make informed decisions to protect their shoulder health and enjoy an active lifestyle.
References
- Fongemie, A. E., Buss, D. D., & Rolnick, S. J. (1998). Management of shoulder impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tears. American Family Physician, 57(4), 667-674. https://www.aafp.org
- Jain, N., Reilly, P., & Rangan, A. (2013). Shoulder instability management: A contemporary review. British Medical Bulletin, 105(1), 117-134. https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/lds033
- Mall, N. A., Lee, A. S., Chahal, J., Van Thiel, G. S., Romeo, A. A., Verma, N. N., & Bush-Joseph, C. A. (2013). An evidenced-based examination of the epidemiology and outcomes of traumatic rotator cuff tears. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery, 29(6), 1155-1165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arthro.2012.10.026
- Mazzocca, A. D., Arciero, R. A., & Shea, K. P. (2014). Repair of the rotator cuff: A summary of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 96(20), 1736-1741. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.M.00705
- Shindle, M. K., Voos, J. E., & Williams, R. J. (2011). Athletic injuries of the shoulder: Stability and rotator cuff. Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review, 19(3), 206-211. https://doi.org/10.1097/JSA.0b013e318220bb4b
