Description A shoulder sprain o...
Description
A shoulder sprain occurs when the ligaments (bands of tissue that connect two bones) of the shoulder are stretched or torn. The injury can result from forceful twisting of the arm, a fall onto an outstretched arm, or a direct blow. Sprains can usually be categorized into the following three grades: Grade 1 - stretch, Grade II - partial tear, Grade III - complete tear.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the sprain. They may include pain, swelling, decreased mobility or bruising.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. X-rays may be ordered to look for a bone fracture. If a significant ligament injury is suspected, an MRI will likely be ordered. Finally, your physician may elect to perform an arthroscopy if the extent of your injury is unclear after imaging.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (physiatry), Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. X-rays may be ordered to look for a bone fracture. If a significant ligament injury is suspected, an MRI will likely be ordered. Finally, your physician may elect to perform an arthroscopy if the extent of your injury is unclear after imaging.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (physiatry), Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Most mild sprains heal on their own with just rest. Treatment includes: immobilization, ice, elevation and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn) and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Physical therapy and therapeutic ultrasound may be helpful. For severe sprains that do not improve with other treatments, more prolonged immobilization and/or surgery may be required.