Shoulder Sprain

What is a Shoulder Sprain?

A shoulder sprain is an injury in which the ligaments attached to the shoulder are stretched or torn. Ligaments are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones or cartilages. They also serve as a support for fasciae and muscles.

The shoulder ligaments are attached to four bones on each side of the body: the acromion, the clavicle, the scapula, and the sternum. The acromioclavicular joint is formed with ligaments between the acromion and the clavicle bones. The sternoclavicular joint is formed with ligaments between the sternum and the clavicle. These two bilateral joints are where the ligaments are damaged in a sprained shoulder.

Shoulder Sprain Symptoms

The following are symptoms of a shoulder sprain:

• Swelling/Puffiness
• Tenderness
• Redness
• Bruising
• Increased Pain with Movement
• Lack of Mobility

Additionally, a shoulder's soft tissue may be damaged due to inflammation. The cardinal signs for inflammation are swelling, redness, pain, increased heat, and loss of function.

Causes of a Shoulder Sprain

It is fairly common to experience a shoulder sprain due to:

• Improper lifting techniques
• Auto accidents
• Landing on the shoulder
• Physical sports
• Slip and fall accidents

Shoulder Sprain Consequences

Besides discomfort and pain, a person may be unable to twist their upper body or lift their arms. Additionally, lifting objects may cause complications in daily routines at home and work. Depending on the job, it may be necessary to receive a note from a physician requesting light duty if carrying or lifting is required.

Shoulder Sprain Treatment

The RICE method is usually useful in treating a sprain or strain.

• R - Rest
• I - Ice
• C - Compression
• E - Elevation

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. Once the swelling and pain begins to diminish, it is recommended for the patient to begin working on strengthening the shoulder muscles by using various motion exercises. In addition to strengthening and motion exercises, assisting devices, such as a shoulder brace or strap, may be needed. A further evaluation may be necessary if the shoulder is not healing after a period of time.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has experienced a shoulder sprain, please contact our Shoulder Injury Attorneys for a free, personal, and confidential consultation. You can contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova at 602-265-6700.

Our attorneys not only work on shoulder sprain cases but in other personal injury areas, as well as criminal defense and DUI, dog bites, motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, and product and premises liability, so please contact your local Phoenix attorneys for a free consultation.

*Contingent fees are charged on total recovery. **No Fee Guarantee applies in the event there is no recovery.