Shoulder Injuries
Swimmer's shoulder
Swimmer's shoulder is a type of overuse injury. According to Dr. Scott Koehler
and Dr. David Thornson in a 1996 article of The Physician and Sports Medicine,
swimmer's shoulder occurs in 38% to 75% of competitive swimmers. The condition
is a result of overuse, especially in young swimmers whose skeletons are still
developing. Swimmers use a wide range of motion in their rotator cuff. Over
time, this motion tends to cause the soft tissue surrounding the space to migrate
between the head of the humerus bone and the shoulder blade. The child should
rest until symptoms abate and learn to use techniques that limit impingement
of the shoulder during swim exercises. If your child has swimmer's shoulder,
he or she should see a pediatric orthopedic physician.
Little league shoulder
Little league shoulder, also called pitcher's shoulder, is an overuse
injury. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the
condition occurs when the arm is extended under high speed frequently.
Children with little league shoulder may complain of pain or loss of
range of motion and strength. Little league shoulder injury requires
rest until completely healed. Children should not return to sports until
little league shoulder has completely healed. It is important to seek
the care of an orthopedist to treat overuse injuries in children.
Shoulder
separation
The AAOS reports that football players often sustain a shoulder separation.
However, any child who falls on the tip can separate his shoulder. Shoulder
separation (or AC separation) occurs in kids when the shoulder blade
and collar bone work away from one another. A blow or overuse can cause
this type of injury. The ligaments aligning the joint may be stretched
or torn. Your child's orthopedic physician may prescribe a sling, ice,
rest and medication. If the clavicle and shoulder blade are completely
separated, surgery may be necessary.
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