AUTHORED BY MR J. HARLOW, CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON
Shoulder & Arm Injuries
Specialist diagnosis and treatment for acute and chronic shoulder and arm injuries, from first assessment through to full recovery.
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What Are Shoulder & Arm Injuries?
Shoulder and arm injuries range from sudden, sport-related trauma to gradual wear that builds up over months of repetitive movement. They can affect the joint itself, the surrounding muscles and tendons, or the nerves that run down the arm.
Left untreated, even minor injuries can limit movement and lead to longer-term joint problems, which is why an early, accurate diagnosis matters.
Types of Shoulder & Arm Injuries
Rotator cuff tears are among the most common, often caused by overhead lifting or a fall onto an outstretched arm.
Frozen shoulder develops more gradually, causing stiffness and a shrinking range of motion, typically over several months.
Tennis and golfer's elbow are overuse injuries of the tendons at the elbow, common in racquet sports and manual work alike.
Treatment Of Shoulder & Arm Injuries
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Many cases respond well to targeted physiotherapy and activity changes, while more significant tears or fractures may need surgical repair followed by a structured rehabilitation programme.
Prevention Strategies
Regular shoulder mobility work, a proper warm-up before sport, and correcting lifting technique all reduce the risk of injury recurring.
When To See A Doctor
Persistent pain, a loss of strength, or being unable to lift the arm above shoulder height are all reasons to seek an assessment promptly.