3 Sports That Increase Risk Of Rotator Cuff Injuries: Treatment For Shoulder Pain

A Common Injury For Athletes

Rotator Cuff injuries are a common source of pain and discomfort for athletes. Athletes participating in repetitive, overhead sports have an increased risk of rotator cuff injuries. Fortunately, there is a broad range of potential treatment options available for most rotator cuff injuries.

What is a rotator cuff injury?

The rotator cuff consists of a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and hold the head of the upper arm bone firmly within the shallow socket of the shoulder. The rotator cuff provides stability to the shoulder and also helps the shoulder move.

Repeat motions put shoulders at risk

Rotator cuff injuries are not uncommon. Typical shoulder injuries include tendinitis, bursitis, and injuries such as tears. These injuries are often due to regular repetitive motions overhead and are characterized by weakness in the shoulder, reduced range of motion, and pain.

Rotator cuff injuries are often sports-related

Sports that repeatedly use the shoulder joint increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries. There are 3 sports well known to increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries.

1. Throwing a ball

Overhand throwing places significant stress on the shoulder, especially on the rotator cuff, which keeps the shoulder stable. Many baseball pitchers experience rotator cuff injuries due to the frequency of overhead throws during a baseball player’s career. Softball players also experience rotator cuff injuries due to the same shoulder motions.

2. Spikes and serves

Rotator cuff injuries are often seen in volleyball players. Volleyball players constantly use their shoulders for overhead serving, spiking, and blocking. These repetitive motions can lead to increased shoulder pain.

3. Swinging the racket

Repetitive overhead motions are a part of the tennis game and also seen in racquet ball. The high stress on the shoulder from tennis motions can lead to rotator cuff injuries in tennis players.

What symptoms should you expect to see?

Different rotator cuff injuries will exhibit a variety of symptoms. Depending on the specific injury, the symptoms can include sharp pain, dull ache, and difficulty sleeping.

How will an orthopedic doctor diagnose this injury?

To diagnose a rotator cuff injury, an orthopedic doctor will obtain a medical history and perform a physical exam. This exam may include strength testing on the rotator cuff muscles. Testing will help the doctor to determine the best course of treatment for rotator cuff injuries. Additional imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, may be needed.

Treatment options for rotator cuff injuries

Doctors often recommend a variety of treatment options for shoulder pain. These may include the following treatments:

• Medications (anti-inflammatory and acetaminophen) to treat initial pain symptoms
• Rest of the injured shoulder
• A combination of ice and heat
• Exercises to increase strength and help improve range of motion
• Avoid repetitive motions and overhead sports

What to do if you experience shoulder pain

Many rotator cuff injuries will heal slowly with rest and conservative treatment. However, left untreated shoulder injuries can lead to complicated medical conditions. If someone is experiencing severe shoulder pain, it is important to seek out advice from a medical provider to ensure the proper treatment is administered.