Shoulder Sprain

What is Shoulder Sprain

Shoulder Sprain is a partial or complete tear in one of the tough, fiber-like tissues (ligaments) in the shoulder. The ligaments in the shoulder help to hold the shoulder in place.

What are the causes?

This condition may be caused by:

  • A fall.
  • A hit to the shoulder.
  • A twist of the arm.

What increases the risk?

This condition is more likely to develop in:

  • People who play sports.
  • People who have problems with balance or coordination.

What are the signs or symptoms?

Symptoms of this condition include:

  • Pain when moving the shoulder.
  • Limited ability to move the shoulder.
  • Swelling and tenderness on top of the shoulder.
  • Warmth in the shoulder.
  • A change in the shape of the shoulder.
  • Redness or bruising on the shoulder.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed with a physical exam. During the exam, you may be asked to do simple exercises with your shoulder. You may also have imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or a CT scan. These tests can show how severe the sprain is.

How is this treated?

This condition may be treated with:

  • Rest.
  • Pain medicine.
  • Ice.
  • A sling or brace. This is used to keep the arm still while the shoulder is healing.
  • Physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises. These help to improve the range of motion and strength of the shoulder.
  • Surgery (rare). Surgery may be needed if the sprain caused a joint to become unstable. Surgery may also be needed to reduce pain.

Some people may develop ongoing shoulder pain or lose some range of motion in the shoulder. However, most people do not develop long-term problems.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Rest.
  • Ask your health care provider when it is safe for you to drive if you have a sling or brace on your shoulder.
  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
  • If directed, apply ice to the area:
    • Put ice in a plastic bag.
    • Place a towel between your skin and the bag.
    • Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times per day.
  • If you were given a shoulder sling or brace:
    • Wear it as told.
    • Remove it to shower or bathe.
    • Move your arm only as much as told by your health care provider, but keep your hand moving to prevent swelling.
  • If you were shown how to do any exercises, do them as told by your health care provider.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

  • Your pain gets worse.
  • Your pain is not relieved with medicines.
  • You have increased redness or swelling.

Get help right away if:

  • You have a fever.
  • You cannot move your arm or shoulder.
  • You develop severe numbness or tingling in your arm, hand, or fingers.
  • Your arm, hand, or fingers turn blue, white, or gray and feel cold.
15585

Sign up to receive the trending updates and tons of Health Tips

Join SeekhealthZ and never miss the latest health information

15856