Shoulder strain: what is it?

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Shoulder strain is a type of shoulder injury in which inflammation of the shoulder muscles causes recurring pain. The strain can be due to overexertion while exercising, an injury sustained in an accident, or the development of some type of ongoing health issue. In many cases, shoulder strain can be treated successfully with a combination of rest and medication that helps minimize discomfort and allows the shoulder to heal.

A shoulder strain most commonly occurs due to damage to the different forms of tissue around the shoulder. Stress on the tendons and cartilage that help hold the shoulder joint together can lead to a great deal of inflammation, which in turn leads to swelling that puts pressure on the joint itself. When this happens, the shoulder displacement causes a great deal of pain that can be difficult to bear.

Degenerative conditions such as arthritis and avascular necrosis can also be the origin of shoulder tension and pain. Over time, arthritis wears down cartilage and can even affect the strength of the bones in the shoulder joint. The inflammation sets in, making it very difficult to move the shoulder normally. Medications are often needed to keep the inflammation under control and help the individual get at least some relief from the pain.

With avascular necrosis, the blood supply to the shoulder bones is cut off. This leads to the bones starving and shrivelling. When the bone dies, proper shoulder rotation becomes impossible without experiencing a lot of pain. Often, surgery is the only answer to this condition, although the use of medications can be helpful if the disease is contracted in its early stages.

Diagnosing the underlying reason for shoulder strain requires at least a physical exam. Often, the treating doctor will also order tests such as X-rays or MRIs, also known as MRIs. This can help identify whether the cause of the pain is due to overexertion or if there is a developing health issue that needs to be addressed to ease the discomfort caused by exertion.

There are several elements that can be part of the treatment process for a shoulder strain. The use of anti-inflammatory drugs is quite common. Depending on the reason for the strain, applying heat and cold to the shoulder throughout the day can help with the swelling and relieve some of the pain. Physical therapy may also be needed to help restore some range of motion and to help facilitate healing of damaged tissue. Surgery is usually considered a last resort in most cases, with the presence of avascular necrosis being the notable exception.

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