What are the common shoulder injury signs?

1. Stiff Shoulders
2. Pain in the arm, neck, shoulder, or back
3. Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
4. Changes in temperature or color
5. Weakness in the arm

Overview

• Shoulders enable various movements like flexing, raising, and extending arms.
• Some common signs that your shoulders may be suffering an injury are experiencing stiffness and pain in the shoulder, arm, and neck areas, bruising, and swelling.
• Knowing the signs of a shoulder injury is just the first step to addressing it. It is best to consult a trained professional for assessment and treatment.

The shoulder is one of the most complex and mobile joints in our body, enabling a wide range of movements essential for our daily activities and athletic pursuits. Due to its intricate structure and extensive use, it is highly susceptible to injuries. Recognizing shoulder injury signs is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment. This article provides insights into the common indicators of shoulder injuries, helping individuals identify potential issues early and seek appropriate medical attention.

Stiff Shoulders

Stiffness on your shoulders is one of the most common shoulder injury signs. This can be tricky as it affects your range of mobility, especially when you try extending your arm upwards. Injuries that may be related to stiff shoulders may include the following:

• Rotator cuff injuries, where tendons on the rotator cuff suffer tears.
• Frozen shoulder is caused by inflammation due to scar tissue around the shoulder joints. This injury is also known as Adhesive Capsulitis.
• Arthritis, which is characterized by inflammation, worn down cartilage in the shoulder. Experiencing shoulder stiffness may affect your daily activities and can cause intense pain, depending on the underlying injury that caused it.

Pain in the Arm, Neck, Shoulder, or Back

As your shoulder is connected to the rest of the systems in your body, you might find the areas surrounding your shoulder may also feel painful. These areas include the arms, neck, and back. You might find that the pain only flares up when you move the affected areas. There can also be instances where the pain is paired with popping, grinding, or clicking sensations. It is best to consult a health expert for their professional opinion and expertise in providing service.

Swelling or Tenderness in the Affected Area

Shoulder injuries may manifest themselves as tenderness or swelling, in addition to any painful sensations that you may experience. These more visible signs can mean that the nature of your injury could be more in your muscles or soft tissues. However, this can go two ways since swelling body parts can also be a sign of more serious injuries such as dislocation, fractures, and bone separations. Some swellings can occur suddenly after an injury or as a symptom of a more serious condition. If you experience persistent swelling, it is recommended that you seek professional intervention to properly identify the root cause.

Changes in Temperature or Color

If you notice a bruise forming on your shoulder after a fall, it may be a sign that that area is injured. Bruised display different colors as it heals over time—ranging from black and blue to red, yellow, and green. A sudden change in the color of your bruise from pale to blue can be an indication that there is a problem with the blood flow and supply in that area. Some can be caused by cut-off circulation, but it can also be a sign of a more serious injury. Inflammation can go hand in hand with shoulder bruises and can be caused by injuries such as tendinitis or bursitis.

Weakness in the Arm

Feeling weak in the arm, especially when you try to raise it, can indicate a number of shoulder injuries. Rotator cuff injuries can be an underlying cause of weakness in the arm. Arthritis, shoulder instability, and dislocation are also known causes of this sensation. Other muscle and tendon-related injuries may also cause you to feel weakness in the affected area. It is best to keep in mind that shoulder injuries can lead to long-term damage if left unmonitored and untreated. While you might want to seek at-home shoulder relief, it's always best to consult a trained professional should you experience any of these signs.

Key Takeaway

Shoulder injuries often present symptoms such as sharp pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, swelling, and weakness in the area. In severe cases, a visible deformity or discoloration may occur. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation promptly to prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment early. Are you experiencing chronic pain or discomfort? Discover the benefits of chiropractic care in the Philippines! Our expert chiropractors provide personalized treatment plans to help you achieve optimal health and wellness. Don't wait any longer—schedule your consultation today and start your journey toward a pain-free life!