Tag Archives: shoulder

Shoulder Separation

Many athletes who play contact sports like football, can experience shoulder separation. A common misconception about a separated shoulder is that it’s an injury to the shoulder joint. A separated shoulder involves the acromioclavicular joint (known as the AC joint), which is where the collarbone meets the highest point of the shoulder blade.
A fall directly on the shoulder is the most common cause of a separated shoulder as it injures the ligaments, muscles, and tendons around the AC joint. If the movement or fall that caused the injury is bad enough, it can tear the ligaments attached to the collarbone, which is what separates the shoulder.

Symptoms of a separated shoulder include:
– Limited joint mobility
– Pain in the shoulder
– Swelling, or bruising

An X-ray usually identifies what’s wrong with the shoulder, and sometimes nonsurgical treatments like ice packs, slings, and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage the pain and help the shoulder return to its normal function. Oftentimes, however, surgery is required. Depending on the severity of the injury, the surgeon may suggest trimming the end of the collarbone so that it doesn’t rub the acromion. If the injury is more severe, the surgeon may have to reconstruct the ligaments that attach to the collarbone.

For more information, call 251-410-3600.

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Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a critical part of the shoulder. Consisting of the muscles and tendons located at the shoulder joint, the rotator cuff attaches the shoulder to the upper arm, helping the shoulder function correctly and allowing for the arm to be raised.

Injuries to the rotator cuff, such as a strain or tear, are actually quite common. These injuries can happen quickly because of a sudden movement or occur over a slow period of time due to repetitive movements or overuse of the shoulder itself.

Some of the most common symptoms of a torn rotator cuff include:

  • Persistent pain

  • Limited use of the arm

  • Muscle weakness

Surgery may be the only option to repair a tear. There are multiple options for rotator cuff repair, including less invasive options like arthroscopy, which requires inserting a small camera into the shoulder joint. And, much of the time, surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis, not requiring the patient to stay at the hospital overnight. It’s important to talk with your doctor to determine which surgical option is right for you and your individual need.

For more information, call 251-410-3600.

 

Playing Injured: Not a Tough Call

Playing Injured: Not a Tough Call

Playing Injured: Not a Tough Call

Did you know that many NFL players risk their health by playing through injuries? Tough or not, their desire to stay on the field is so strong that it can sometimes overshadow their pain. The nature of this sport fosters high pain tolerance and quick recovery, but athletes shouldn’t always “suck it up,” as it increases their chances of re-injury or re-aggravation.

With playoffs approaching, it is important to look out for these four common football-related injuries and encourage players to seek proper treatment:

ACL/MCL/PCL/LCL tears – anterior cruciate, medial collateral, posterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments are all located in the knee. Each serves a different purpose to the function of the knee. Depending on the area of impact, front, rear or side, these ligaments can be damaged or torn. These tears are dangerous because of their high pain level and long-term healing time. Tears can also affect a player’s long-term ability to play.

Concussions – Even though players wear helmets, concussions can still occur. Concussions are the result of a traumatic hit to the head and can have serious effects on the player. When in doubt, players should take the bench and seek medical attention.

Shoulder injuries – While shoulder pads are designed to absorb the shock of tackles, injury can still occur. Common shoulder injuries are: shoulder separation/ dislocation and shoulder tendonitis. If a player takes a direct blow below the shoulder, it can cause separation of the acromioclavicular joint. A shoulder dislocation occurs when the head of the humerus detaches from the scapula. Shoulder tendonitis occurs due to overuse from throwing.

Ankle/Foot injuries – The most common sports injury is a sprained ankle. Ankle sprains and strains are caused by soft tissue damage from pivoting, changing direction or applying pressure to the joint.

Reality check: the longer an injury is played on, the longer it takes to retrain the muscle. If you’re injured while playing a sport, please make an appointment with one of our sports medicine orthopedics – Call: 251-410-3600 

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4 Tips to Picking the Right Backpack

4 Tips to picking the right backpack
As kids get older they are tasked with carrying home bigger books and more technology. Such heavy loads can create a burden on their young, growing bones, which may cause injury to their muscles and joints. It’s important to pick a backpack that will help share the load. Here are four tips to help you and your child, choose the best backpack that will stand up to the educational weight.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All 

Don’t buy your child a larger backpack with the expectation that they will grow into it. It is important to buy a bag that fits your child properly, now. A proper fitting backpack should sit just below your child’s shoulder blades and ends at their waist.

Keep it Light

Kids have enough to carry around, they don’t need their backpack to be heavy too. Be sure to pick a bag made of lightweight, yet sturdy fabric. Don’t let them overpack, take out any unnecessary items they won’t need and make sure their school allows them time to utilize a locker. Quick tip: Help reduce the weight of their bag by placing heavier items lower and toward the center of their bag.

Hot Wheels

Consider buying a backpack with wheels. These types of backpacks is the best way to keep unnecessary weight off your child’s shoulders. Also, make sure the bag is stable and easy to haul upstairs, if necessary.

Check the Straps

Look for a bag with wide, padded shoulder straps. These will help distribute the weight evenly and reduce the risk of muscle strain or injury. The padding should be made of durable foam that bounces back from your touch. Children should also use both straps of the bag, ensuring the weight isn’t burdening one side of the body. Tighten the straps so they are closer to their back to keep the weight close.

Keep an eye out for your children struggling to lift their heavy backpacks, and learn how to help ease their pain. Kids can lug around their backpacks for up to 12 hours a day. For more information call (251) 410-3600.

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