Shoulder injury

Shoulder injury overview

Shoulder injuries can take many forms from damage to the nerves and muscles to dislocations of the shoulder, fractured collar bones and rotator cuff injuries. The shoulder is vulnerable to injury as it is the most mobile and flexible joint in the human body. Pain following a shoulder injury can be one of the most frustrating problems as the shoulder is so important to many everyday activities. The physiology of the shoulder also makes shoulder injury a common occurrence in many accidents. The joint is controlled by a complex system of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.

Types of shoulder injury

Dislocated shoulder injuries occur as a result of impacts. The injured shoulder will appear mis-formed and the injured person will be in severe pain. A broken collar bone or broken clavicle occurs as a result of fall or impact. The difficulty with this type of shoulder injury is that it cannot be set in plaster and must therefore remain in a sling.

Shoulder injury rehabilitation

Shoulder injuries resulting in broken bones are difficult to immobilise in plaster casts. Often a sling is used and depending on the severity of the break, the bone may be aligned through surgical procedures. The process of shoulder injury rehabilitation is designed to restore strength and movement after shoulder injury. A programme of exercise including a flexibility programme, will be undertaken in conjunction with a physiotherapist to ensure that full function is restored.

Shoulder injury next steps

If you wish to see if you have an accident claim as a result of a shoulder injury, please contact us. Please also use the information on the pages below to find out more.