A sprained shoulder occurs when ligaments, the tough fibrous bands of tissue connecting bones within the shoulder joint, are stretched or torn. The shoulder is a complex joint involving the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). Its high mobility makes it vulnerable to injury. Shoulder sprains are common, especially among athletes and from falls, and often respond well to at-home care.
Initial Steps for Relief
Managing a sprained shoulder immediately after injury involves self-care measures to reduce pain and swelling. The R.I.C.E. method is a common first-aid approach: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Resting the injured shoulder prevents further damage and allows healing. Avoid movements that cause pain or put stress on the shoulder.
Applying ice to the affected area minimizes swelling and numbs pain. Place an ice pack or cold compress on your shoulder for 10 to 20 minutes, repeating every 1-2 hours while awake for 2-3 days. Always use a thin cloth between the ice and your skin to prevent frostbite. Compression with an elastic bandage reduces swelling by providing gentle pressure around the injured joint.
Elevation of the shoulder, above heart level, aids in reducing swelling. Prop your arm with pillows while resting. For pain, over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs (ibuprofen or naproxen) or acetaminophen can be taken. Follow dosage guidelines and consult a pharmacist if you have questions about proper use.
Recognizing When to Seek Medical Attention
While many mild shoulder sprains can improve with self-care, certain signs indicate professional medical evaluation is necessary. Seek medical attention if pain is severe or worsens despite at-home care. Inability to move your arm or shoulder, or significant difficulty with movement, warrants a doctor’s visit.
Other concerning symptoms include substantial swelling, bruising, or noticeable deformity around the shoulder joint. Numbness, tingling, or a cool/pale arm below the shoulder could indicate a serious issue requiring immediate care. If symptoms do not improve after a few days of consistent self-care, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and to rule out more significant injuries.
Professional Treatment and Rehabilitation
When a sprained shoulder requires professional intervention, a doctor begins with a physical examination to assess its range of motion, stability, and strength. Imaging tests may be ordered to determine the injury’s extent and nature. X-rays rule out fractures or dislocations, while MRI visualizes soft tissues like ligaments in greater detail, especially for severe sprains.
Treatment approaches vary depending on the sprain’s severity, often graded 1 (mild stretching) to 3 (complete tear). For less severe sprains, prescribed pain medication may manage discomfort more effectively than over-the-counter options. Immobilization with a sling may support the joint and prevent unwanted movement, promoting healing.
Physical therapy is a primary component of recovery for most shoulder sprains, aiming to restore full function. A physical therapist guides exercises to improve range of motion, flexibility, and strength in the shoulder and surrounding muscles. Exercises progress gradually, from gentle movements to strengthening as healing progresses.
Rehabilitation protocols are tailored to the individual and the specific injury, emphasizing adherence to the prescribed exercises to prevent stiffness and weakness. Recovery timelines for a sprained shoulder vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks for mild sprains to several months for more severe injuries, particularly those involving complete ligament tears. For severe grade 3 sprains with completely torn ligaments or joint instability, surgical intervention might be considered to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments.