How to Recover from a Shoulder Injury Properly

The shoulder is one of the most extensive and complicated joints in the body. It consists of three separate bones, called the humerus, the clavicle, and the scapula. These three bones join together to create the shoulder. The shoulder is held together by four muscles and tendons that make up the rotator cuff, which sheaths the humerus.

The rotator cuff is the part that allows you to move the arm freely and in any desired direction. This highly flexible muscle is how the shoulder provides such a wide range of movement. When the rotator cuff is injured severely, it will prevent you from moving the shoulder. You will need to visit a physiotherapy clinic and seek a professional recovery plan.

Here is a detailed guide on how to recover from your shoulder injury properly-

How does your shoulder get injured?

It is pretty easy to suffer from a shoulder injury. The injury can result from partaking in a wide variety of activities. It can be caused by participating in rigorous sports activities, or it can be caused by something as simple as a slip-and-fall incident.

If you are suffering from a shoulder injury, your first step is to see a professional and receive a proper diagnosis. Your shoulder may be dislocated, in which case you need immediate medical assistance. If your shoulder has been dislocated, a doctor will usually put the shoulder back in place. Your arm is put into a sling, keeping the body part in place while it recovers.

Get plenty of rest

Shoulder injuries can be highly sensitive. The shoulder consists of numerous delicate tissues and tendons that hold the shoulder joint in place. If any further pressure is placed on a shoulder injury, that can worsen the wound and cause further tissue damage. 

Get as much bed rest as possible for the following couple of weeks. This includes limiting arm movements, exercise and physical activity in general. Also, do your best to avoid any heavy lifting or overhead arm movements that may place any strain on the injury. Once enough time has passed, the shoulder injury should gradually recover, and the shoulder should gain strength again.

Take over-the-counter pain medication

Another easy at-home remedy for a shoulder injury is the use of medication. Medicine can help reduce any existing shoulder pain. It also prevents further bruising, swelling and discomfort, and sensitivity.

Pain medication is a great way of preventing an injury from worsening. Over-the-counter medication can help relieve some of the pain and inflammation is experienced. You can try using pain medicine that is probably already in your medicine cabinet, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Take these medications as advised on the packaging.

Apply ice frequently

Icing an injury can be highly effective at reducing pain and inflammation. This is because the cold temperature compresses blood vessels and limits circulation to the affected area. Icing will provide a numbing effect and help reduce the feeling of pain.

You should ice the area of impact immediately after injury for the fastest and most immediate results. Try wrapping some ice in a towel and applying it to the area of injury. Avoid applying ice directly to the area of injury, as this can cause irritation to the injury. Try icing your shoulder frequently throughout the day to see the best results.

Visit a medical clinic

Just as stated at the beginning, consulting a physiotherapist is highly recommended if you suspect that you may have a shoulder injury. Often, a shoulder injury requires the use of a sling and a very specific day-to-day procedure for a speedy recovery. There are several different types of shoulder injuries such as dislocation, fracture, or rotator cuff tear. In any case, the process of recovery varies from individual to individual. It is best to be safe and visit your local practitioner or family doctor for medical advice.

Shoulder injuries normally take one or two months to heal entirely, so it is key to be patient during recovery. You will eventually reach a point in the injury when you can start exercising the use of your arm again in order to strengthen and practice using your muscles again. Once you reach this stage, please refer to a physical therapist to aid you in practicing the exercises that would work best for you to recover from a shoulder injury properly.