Shoulder tendon injuries are common and can be quite painful. If you have an injured shoulder tendon, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. There are a few different methods that can be used to treat injured shoulder tendons, depending on the severity of the injury. Let’s talk about the most common treatments for injured shoulder tendons and where you can go in Plantation, FL, for comprehensive orthopedic care.
What Are Shoulder Tendons and What Do They Do?
The shoulder is a complex joint made up of several muscles and tendons. Each muscle is connected to a tendon, a band of tough, fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. The main purpose of the shoulder tendons is to transmit the force generated by muscles to the bone to move the bones. The shoulder tendons help stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of motion in the shoulder. Shoulder movement is important for everyday activities as well as sports like baseball, swimming, tennis, and golf.
Causes of Shoulder Tendonitis
Shoulder tendonitis is a common condition that affects the shoulder joint in which the tendon(s) become inflamed. The main causes of shoulder tendonitis are overuse of the shoulder muscles and tendons, as well as repetitive overhead motions such as throwing or swinging a golf club. Other less common causes of shoulder tendonitis include improper lifting technique or infection.
Treating Injured Shoulder Tendons
There are several methods that can be used to treat injured shoulder tendons. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the injury. The most common treatments for injured shoulder tendons include:
- Rest – For the injured tendon to heal, it is important to rest the affected area. This may mean taking a break from your sport or activity. Avoid overhead activities and take frequent breaks if you need to continue using your arm.
- Ice – Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. Wrap an ice pack in a thin towel and apply it to the injured tendon for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times per day.
- Anti-inflammatory Medication – Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
- Physical Therapy – A physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint. This will help reduce pain and improve the range of motion. This is also an important recovery step for athletes, and it is common for doctors to work together with physical therapists to determine if someone is healthy enough to return to their sport.
- Surgery – In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon. This is typically a last resort option and will only be considered if other treatments have failed. Physical therapy is commonly prescribed after surgery to help regain muscle strength around the joint.
Recovery Time and Return to Sports
The recovery time for injured shoulder tendons will vary depending on the severity of the injury. Rest and ice may be necessary for mild injuries, and the tendon will heal on its own. More severe injuries may require physical therapy or surgery. Most people fully recover from shoulder tendonitis and can return to their previous level of activity. However, it is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. If you experience continued pain or swelling, talk to an orthopedic physician.
Sports Medicine Doctor in Plantation, FL
If you think you may have injured your shoulder tendons or are looking for excellent care for a shoulder injury, look no further than Baylis and Brown Orthopedics. Dr. Robert Baylis is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and shoulder injuries specifically. He works with each patient to devise a treatment plan that fits their lifestyle and gets them feeling better and playing their sport again in no time.
To make an appointment, call us at (954) 476-8800, or request an appointment here. We look forward to treating you!
