Healing from a shoulder injury can be a lengthy process. However, shoulder injuries are highly treatable if addressed as early as possible.
As fall slides into winter, the holiday hustle begins—and brings with it a bustle of common winter injuries. Tis’ the season of decorating, shopping, and traveling—and slips, trips, and falls. As ladders come out to hang lights and ornaments come down from the attic, visits to our Urgent Care Clinic go up.
What is one of the most common wintertime injuries that we treat? Shoulder trauma. However this is not surprising. In fact, the shoulder is the most commonly injured joint in the body.
The most complex joint
The shoulder has a unique anatomy. With its only bony connection to the body at the collarbone and a 360° rotation, this multitasking joint has the greatest flexibility and also the least stability.
This flexibility also makes it prone to injury. What is the reason shoulders are at such a high risk of trauma? Any misstep or tumble often involves the person trying to “catch” their fall to avoid injury. Due to this our shoulders frequently bear the heavy brunt of most accidents.
Winter weather, such as rain and ice, leads to more tumbles and trauma. Wearing non-slip shoes, being aware of the terrain, and using extra caution may help you avoid an accident and injury.
Winter-related work injuries
Certain occupations have a higher risk of winter-related injuries than others.
The most frequently reported on-the-job injuries are slips and falls, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), accounting for 20% of all workplace injuries. This type of accident increases that much more for those who work in the elements.
Shoulder Injuries can occur from many situations:
- Slipping and falling onto an outstretched arm
- Forceful pulling on the arm
- Quick movement of the arm when it’s above the shoulder.
Shoulder sprain, strain, and tear symptoms include:
- Diminished shoulder strength
- Decreased range of motion
- Locking, catching, popping, or grinding of your shoulder
- Pain when moving the shoulder
- Pain when lifting objects overhead
- Unsteady feeling, as if shoulder joint could dislocate
What can you do to avoid injury?
One simple solution: warm-up. Proper stretching should always preclude any physical activity, no matter your age or level of physical fitness.
Unfortunately, accidents happen. Seeking orthopedic care as soon as possible leads to better treatment options and outcomes.
Shoulder-to-shoulder orthopedic care
Healing from a shoulder injury can be a lengthy process. Fortunately, shoulder injuries are highly treatable if addressed early. Shoulder injuries can often be resolved without surgery. However, many individuals may ignore the pain for too long and cause severe damage that eliminates nonsurgical options.
