Vanderbilt Orthopaedics

Shoulder injuries are common for athletes and skilled workers. Injuries to the shoulder range from "Labral”(cartilage) tears, ligament tears, rotator cuff tears to a variety of overuse injuries. Our Shoulder Center treats all types of shoulder injuries, from overuse injuries to tears in the ligaments, rotator

Injuries we treat
We treat anything that affects the shoulder, from simple problems to comples cases. Here are some of the common conditions that may be affecting your shoulder: 

• Acromioclavicular Sprains
• Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)
• Brachial Plexus Injuries
• Bursitis
• Degenerative Joint Disease
• Fractures/ Clavical/ Humerus
• Impingement Syndrome
• Rotator cuff strains
• Rotator cuff Tears
• Rotator Cuff Tendonopothies
• Shoulder dislocations/ subluxations
• Shoulder Laxity

Symptoms of shoulder problems

• Moderate to severe swelling
• Discoloration
• Pain
• Weakness
• Locking or catching 
• An unstable feeling
• Stiffness

First Steps of Care
The first thing to do with shoulder injuries is the R.I.C.E. principle: Rest, Ice, Compression (with an ace bandage), and Elevation of the limb. A shoulder sling may help. You may use pain medicine such as Advil, Ibuprofren or Aleve if your doctor approves.

Professional Care
It's important to seek professional medical help. Your provider will most likely order a series of X-rays and do an exam after hearing your injury history. Vanderbilt Sports Medicine has X-ray facilities and technicians on site. Our doctors will discuss pros and cons of all treatment options so that you can make the wisest decision possible for your health.

Therapy
You may need physical therapy, depending on the injury. Physical therapy is especially important if surgery is scheduled in order to get your body in shape for rehab. We have expert physical therapists and certified athletic trainers on site to help you create and follow a rehab and exercise program