Reducing Your Risk Of Shoulder ReInjury

What do shoulder injuries and kidney stones have in common? First, you absolutely do not want to go through either of these medical problems ever again due to the pain, and second, once you experience either kidney stones or a shoulder injury, you are more at risk to have a recurrence. If you have previously injured your shoulder, reducing your risk of shoulder reinjury should become a priority.

Every Time You Move…

Every time you move, your shoulder moves. In fact, it is the most injured joint in your body. There are many causes of shoulder pain and injury. One of them is not paying attention when you do have pain. Stop whatever you are doing and use ice and rest.

Some common reasons for shoulder pain and injury include the following:

• Age. The longer you live, the more wear and tear your shoulder takes
• Osteoarthritis, which develops when the cartilage in your shoulder wears down
• Rotator cuff damage
• Bursitis, or when the fluid filled pads in your shoulder become inflamed and swollen
• Dislocation, which occurs when your upper arm bone comes out of the shoulder socket
• Frozen shoulder, that occurs when the connective tissue in your shoulder thickens and tightens the joint preventing movement

Practical Suggestions For Reducing Your Risk Of Shoulder Reinjury

These also apply as a way to prevent your first injury.

Never strain to reach for what you need. Use a step stool to reach high places or simply move needed items to a lower shelf.

Follow the rules for safe lifting by using your legs and keeping your back straight.

Use good posture (like your mother taught you).

Stay in shape and keep your body in good condition with regular exercise. Warming up and stretching is a key component of rehabilitation and how to prevent another injury.

To increase your shoulder strength, lifting and exercising using proper form can help to stabilize your shoulder. Always talk with Dr. Samuel Koo in (425) 823-4000 before beginning a strengthening program.

Download these exercise and stretching options to lower the risk of shoulder injury or reinjury.

Cross training can also help to avoid injury or reinjury.

Maintain ice therapy, proper rest, and continue with your physical therapy as directed. All these tips will aid in reducing your risk of shoulder reinjury.

Contact Dr. Samuel Koo at (425) 823-4000 if you experience any pain while stretching or exercising especially after shoulder injury.