Shoulder injuries: What are the signs?

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The shoulder is prone to various injuries due to its movable nature. The common injuries include dislocations, sprains, rotator cuff tears and even fractures. Being familiar with the signs of an injury is vital so that the necessary steps can be taken to manage it before it worsens.

Popping or grinding noise

If there is a popping or grinding noise originating in the shoulder during movement, it might be an indication of an injury. The popping and grinding noises can be brought about by the grinding of bone against one another, rupture of the glenohumeral joint fluid sacs or slipping of the tendons over bone. Take note that these noises are typically linked to rotator cuff injuries.

Pain

shoulder-injuries
The usual sign of shoulder injuries is pain or discomfort. The site of the shoulder pain tends to vary based on the specific injury.

The usual sign of shoulder injuries is pain or discomfort. The site of the shoulder pain tends to vary based on the specific injury. If tendinitis is suspected, it causes discomfort throughout the length of the upper arm or on the front region of the shoulder. As for a torn rotator cuff, it triggers pain on the top region of the joint.

Displaced bone

An individual with a displaced bone might be a sign of injury. It is important to note that the shoulder is comprised of 3 bones – humerus, clavicle and scapula. If any of these bones are displaced, it causes deformity.

If the humerus is dislocated from the joint, the shoulder appears to slouch forward or backward. In case the clavicle is displaced, it creates a lump on the upper part of the joint.

Rigidity

Rigidity of the shoulder or frozen shoulder is also an indication of shoulder injuries. The rigidity or stiffness results to reduced range of motion such as difficulty in elevating the arm overhead or unable to reach behind the back even with assistance. The usual causes of stiffness include trauma, arthritis, surgery and endocrine ailments.

Quick Note / Disclaimer

The material posted on this page on shoulder injuries is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize the signs of injury, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.

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