Sports Injuries to the Shoulder
At JRSI, we specialize in treating the following injuries to the shoulder:
- AC Joint Injuries
- Shoulder Dislocation
- Shoulder Impingement
AC Joint Injuries
The AC (acromioclavicular) joint is a joint in the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the shoulder blade (scapula). The specific part of the scapula, adjacent to the clavicle is called the acromion, hence the name AC joint.
The most common problems that occur at the AC joint are arthritis, fractures and "separations". Click here to find out more about AC joint injuries and the methods we use to treat them.
Shoulder Dislocation
When a shoulder dislocates, most commonly the humeral head rolls out the front of the glenoid when the arms are struck while held with the elbows out, as in the blocking position of a football linebacker. Occasionally, the humeral head can be pushed posteriorly, or backwards, out of the glenoid. This can happen from a fall on an outstretched hand or from a direct blow to the front of the shoulder.
Shoulder Impingement
Impingement refers to mechanical compression and/or wear of the rotator cuff tendons. Shoulder impingement can occur with any process which compromises this normal gliding function may lead to mechanical impingement. Common causes include weakening and degeneration within the tendon due to aging, the formation of bone spurs and/or inflammatory tissue within the space above the rotator cuff (subacromial space), and overuse injuries. Overuse activities that can lead to impingement are most commonly seen in tennis players, pitchers and swimmers.