If you are like most people, you probably take your shoulder for granted. After all, it is one of the easiest joints in the body to move. But what happens when something goes wrong and you start experiencing pain? Shoulder injuries can be quite debilitating and can keep you from performing even the simplest tasks.
Shoulder pain can be unavoidable if your job or active lifestyle necessitates regular shoulder motion, rotation, or strain, such as lifting heavy objects above your head or participating in sports like golf or swimming. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to prevent shoulder pain and injury, allowing you to avoid procedures like total shoulder arthroplasty. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 quick tips about shoulder injuries that can help get you back on track!
Keeping your body in the greatest possible shape with a nutritious diet and regular exercise will help you avoid injury. When you do get injured, take the time to heal so that you don’t make the injury worse.
One of the best ways to protect your shoulder is to exercise properly. When you lift weights, make sure that you use the correct form and don’t overdo it. Strengthening your muscles will help keep your shoulder healthy.
When you’re doing an activity that puts stress on your shoulder, be mindful of how much you’re pushing yourself. Doing too much too soon can easily lead to an injury.
Don’t forget about your rotator cuff. A rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help stabilize the shoulder joint. Working these muscles can help prevent injuries.
One of the best ways to keep your shoulder healthy is to make sure it’s always moving. Doing some basic stretches can help loosen up the muscles and keep them flexible.
If you experience any pain whatsoever when you move your shoulder, stop and consult with a doctor. Severe pain could be a sign of something more serious.
Your shoulder is trying to tell you something, so pay attention! If it’s telling you to take a break, then take a break. If it’s telling you to ice it, then ice it. Ignoring your shoulder could lead to further injury.
Shoulder injuries are common and can be frustrating to deal with. However, by following a few simple tips you can help keep yourself healthy and injury-free. Remember to always exercise properly, don’t overreach, and be cautious when working out your shoulder muscles. If you do experience any pain or discomfort, listen to your body and take a break. If the problem persists, call us today for expert advice on how to get back to feeling like your old self again.
Dr. Chen sees patients at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital Center for Sports Medicine in Walnut Creek, California. He is a board-certified Pediatrician and Sports Medicine Doctor that specializes in the non-operative medical treatment of a wide variety of various musculoskeletal conditions, including back injuries. Dr. Chen graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine and went on to complete Pediatric residency training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey (Rutgers), then went on to fellowship training in Sports Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, one of the perennially top-ranked children’s hospitals in the nation. There he provided sideline coverage for NCAA Division I athletics at the University of Cincinnati and Miami University (OH). Since graduating, Dr. Chen has continued his love of sports coverage by volunteering for the San Francisco Marathon, the San Francisco Giant Race, and as the team physician for Northgate High School in Walnut Creek. Being a part of The Center for Sports Medicine allows Dr. Chen quick access to a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, physiatrists, and physical therapists to return you to your highest functional level quickly and safely. Click here to contact us for your next appointment!
925-934-3536
stephen.chen@eastbaysportsdoc.com