Throwing Shoulder Injuries
Introduction
What are throwing injuries in the shoulder?
The shoulder of baseball pitchers and football quarterbacks undergoes five stages when throwing a ball: wind-up, early cocking, late cocking, acceleration, and follow-through. Since these athletes usually throw objects at such high speeds, their shoulder structures are subjected to a high amount of stress, particularly during late cocking and follow-through, to maintain the humeral head (upper arm bone) position within the glenoid socket of the scapula (shoulder blade). When the shoulder joint is repeatedly stressed with high-velocity throwing, the other structures compensate for the load, ultimately resulting in throwing shoulder injuries. Athletes that repetitively perform high-velocity throwing motions, like those seen in basketball, football, volleyball, and baseball, have a greater likelihood of experiencing throwing shoulder injuries. Dr. Frank McCormick, orthopedic shoulder specialist serving Orlando, Palm Beach County, and surrounding Florida communities, has the knowledge and understanding, as well as substantial experience, in treating throwing shoulder injuries.
What are the symptoms of throwing shoulder injuries?
The symptoms of throwing shoulder injuries often vary and are based on the type of injury sustained by the shoulder joint. Individuals often report shoulder pain with activity that is more noticeable with lifting or lowering of the affected arm. This shoulder pain can also be more evident at night when lying on the affected shoulder. Some other common symptoms of throwing shoulder injuries include:
- Reduced range of motion
- Shoulder weakness
- Shoulder stiffness
- A “popping” or “grinding” sensation within the shoulder joint
How are throwing shoulder injuries diagnosed?
A detailed medical history will first be obtained by Dr. McCormick with a focus on any prior shoulder injuries, underlying health conditions, and current symptoms. A physical examination will then follow to evaluate the affected shoulder’s stability, strength, and range of motion. While the medical history and physical examination together are generally enough to diagnose throwing shoulder injuries, diagnostic imaging studies, such as x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are also useful tools in identifying damage to the other shoulder joint structures.
What is the treatment for throwing shoulder injuries?
Non-surgical treatment:
Conservative therapies are the first line of treatment for throwing shoulder injuries. A combination of rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can minimize any pain and inflammation associated with this condition. Modifying and/or limiting the shoulder activity that precipitated this injury is highly advised to prevent any further damage to the shoulder joint. Dr. McCormick can administer a corticosteroid injection directly into the shoulder joint if symptoms persist with oral medications. A physical rehabilitation program focused on strengthening the shoulder muscles and improving range of motion will be prescribed when appropriate.
Surgical treatment:
A number of patient factors, such as age, medical history, activity level, and current symptoms, will be reviewed by Dr. McCormick to determine if more invasive treatment is necessary. There are two surgical approaches that have been successful in treating throwing shoulder injuries:
- Arthroscopy. This is the preferred surgical repair option by patients and surgeons alike for treating throwing shoulder injuries. This minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera (arthroscope) to meticulously analyze the shoulder joint structures. Specialized surgical instruments are then introduced to address any intra-operative findings, such as damage to the shoulder ligaments, rotator cuff, or labrum.
- Open surgery. Patients with extensive soft-tissue damage to multiple shoulder joint structures are ideal candidates for open surgery. This surgical approach involves a slightly larger incision allowing Dr. McCormick to visualize the entire shoulder joint while conducting the necessary repairs.
For more information on shoulder labrum and SLAP tear repairs, or to discuss your shoulder labrum treatment options, please contact the office of Frank McCormick, MD, orthopedic shoulder doctor serving Orlando, Kissimmee, Palm Beach County, Florida, and the surrounding areas.
