Elbow
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
- Elbow Bursitis
Hand and Wrist
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Wrist Instability
Spine
- Sciatica (Lumbar Radiculopathy)
- Lower Back Pain (Lumbar Syndrome)
- Lumbar Disc Herniation
- Lumbar Disc Protrusion
- Spinal Stenosis
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Joint Arthritis
- Scoliosis
- Spondylosis
- Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction
- Thoracic Kyphosis
Hip
- Hip Replacement Surgery
- Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
- Hip Dysplasia
- Piriformis Syndrome
- Hip Bursitis
- Hip Labral Tear
- Hip Dislocation
- Hip Osteoarthritis (Coxarthrosis)
Knee
- Cruciate Ligament Injuries
- Partial or Complete Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear
- Meniscal Injuries
- Knee Instability
- Jumper’s Knee (Patellar Tendinopathy)
- Runner’s Knee (Iliotibial Band Syndrome)
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
- Patellar Instability and Dislocation
- Collateral Ligament Injury
- Knee Osteoarthritis (Gonarthrosis)
Ankle and Foot
- Chronic Ankle Instability
- Ankle Sprain
- Ankle Fracture or Dislocation
- Ankle Ligament Injuries
- Heel Spur
- Plantar Fasciitis
Bone and Joint Conditions
- Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
Muscles and Tendons
Tendinopathy
What Should You Know?
Tendinopathy is one of the most common soft tissue injuries caused by overuse and is most frequently found at tendon attachment sites. It is a degenerative condition that can persist for months or even years.
It develops as a result of chronic microtrauma within the tendon structure, leading to reduced blood supply, inflammation, and localized thickening. The main contributing factors include excessive mechanical loading, muscle weakness and reduced endurance, previous injuries, and improper movement patterns.
Tendinopathy most commonly affects the elbow (tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow), the Achilles tendon, quadriceps tendon, patellar tendon (jumper’s knee), rotator cuff tendons, the long head of the biceps tendon, and the iliopsoas tendon.
In advanced stages, tendinopathy can significantly limit daily activities. Early symptoms are often intermittent, but timely intervention is essential to prevent further progression.
Symptoms
Symptoms are often nonspecific and may include stiffness at the site of injury, discomfort, and occasional pain following physical activity. Pain may decrease during activity but often intensifies several hours after the activity has ended.
In the early stages, pain occurs intermittently and typically resolves within a few days. In later stages, it may become persistent and occur during movement.
Common symptoms include:
Pain during loading or activity
Reduced range of motion
Decreased strength
Visible tendon thickening
Diagnosis and Treatment
The treatment of tendinopathy is complex and highly individualized, depending on the severity of symptoms and the stage of the condition. A clinical examination and diagnostic ultrasound assessment are recommended.
Treatment may include modalities such as therapeutic laser therapy, TECAR therapy, and cryotherapy to reduce pain and inflammation and facilitate the early initiation of targeted rehabilitation.
The cornerstone of rehabilitation is a progressive exercise program, particularly an eccentric-isometric approach that stimulates the formation of new collagen fibers. Exercises begin with isolated movements and gradually progress to more complex and functional activities while avoiding compensatory movement patterns.
Surgical treatment is rarely required and is generally reserved for cases where conservative treatment has not been successful. In chronic cases, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy may also be considered.
Early treatment is essential, along with reducing or modifying activities that provoke symptoms.
Muscle Strain
What Should You Know?
A muscle strain is an injury caused by excessive stretching or overloading of a muscle, resulting in damage to muscle fibers and, to a lesser extent, blood vessels and nerve endings. It most commonly occurs during sudden movements such as pushing off, sprinting, swinging, throwing, or landing.
The muscle groups most frequently affected include:
- Hamstrings
- Calf muscles
- Adductors (inner thigh muscles)
- Hip flexors (iliopsoas)
The main contributing factors are poor physical conditioning, fatigue, insufficient warm-up, and sudden increases in physical load.
Proper warm-up improves muscle elasticity and reduces the risk of injury.
Symptoms of a Muscle Strain
The primary symptom is sudden pain of varying intensity, usually localized and often described as a burning sensation within the muscle.
Pain frequently becomes more noticeable after activity, once the muscle has cooled down.
Following the injury, mild stiffness, pain during loading, and reduced function may occur, while swelling is usually absent.
Treatment and Recovery
In most cases, treatment does not require surgery.
During the acute phase, it is important to avoid excessive loading for 2–4 days, although complete immobilization is not necessary.
When returning to activity, a gradual increase in load combined with targeted therapeutic exercises (kinesiotherapy) is essential.
Muscle strains carry an increased risk of re-injury, making a properly supervised rehabilitation program particularly important.
Strengthening the affected muscles helps prevent the development of weak points within the tissue and reduces the risk of future injuries.
Muscle Spasm
What Should You Know?
Muscle Spasm is a sudden, involuntary, and uncontrolled contraction of a muscle or a group of muscles that causes severe, sharp, and burning pain.
It is associated with individual susceptibility—some people experience it frequently, while others rarely do. The occurrence of muscle cramps increases with age.
Symptoms
The pain is highly uncomfortable and disruptive, but it generally does not pose a serious health risk.
If the spasm persists for a longer period, it is referred to as a muscle cramp.
The most common causes include:
- Muscle overuse
- Fatigue
- Electrolyte imbalance (mineral deficiency)
- Dehydration
Severe muscle cramps may occur due to sudden changes in the functioning of the central nervous system, which controls muscle contraction and relaxation.
As a result of overuse and fatigue, errors in nerve signal transmission can occur, leading to uncontrolled muscle contractions.
Diagnosis
Muscle cramps generally do not represent a significant health risk, although pain may persist for several days after an episode.
If cramps recur frequently in the same muscle group, the risk of muscle fiber damage increases. In such cases, it is recommended to focus on improving strength and endurance.
A muscle strain carries an increased risk of re-injury, which is why a properly supervised rehabilitation program is important.
Strengthening the muscles helps prevent the development of weak points and reduces the risk of future injuries.
Prevention
Prevention includes adequate physical conditioning and gradual progression of physical load.
Acute overload is one of the main triggers for muscle spasms.
An individualized exercise and rehabilitation program helps improve strength and endurance in the affected area and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
Muscle Rupture
What Should You Know?
Muscle Rupture is a muscle injury involving damage to muscle fibers. Depending on the extent of the injury, different grades of muscle rupture can occur.
A partial rupture involves damage to individual muscle fibers, while a complete rupture refers to a full tear of the muscle resulting in a loss of function.
These injuries are common in sports and everyday activities, have a high recurrence rate, and are often not treated adequately.
They may occur as:
- Contact injuries (direct impact or collision)
- Non-contact injuries (overuse, insufficient warm-up, or previous injuries)
A complete rupture most commonly occurs during high-intensity activity, in an unwarmed muscle, during fatigue, following a previous injury, or as a result of a significant external force.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the severity of muscle damage.
In cases of a partial rupture, patients typically experience pain and mild swelling. The muscle can still contract, but with pain and reduced strength.
With a complete rupture, severe pain is present, often accompanied by a hematoma (bruising), complete loss of function, and an inability to contract the affected muscle.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If a muscle rupture is suspected, an ultrasound examination is recommended, and an MRI scan may be required when necessary.
In the event of sudden, severe, and sharp pain, it is important to stop the activity immediately and apply the RICE protocol.
During the first few days following the injury, it is essential to avoid loading the injured area while using treatments that promote healing, such as laser therapy and TECAR therapy, and to begin an individually tailored rehabilitation program as early as possible.
For partial ruptures, therapeutic exercises begin at a low intensity, with the load being gradually increased over time. More demanding exercises are introduced after several weeks.
In complete ruptures, a visible deformity and larger hematoma are often present. The affected area should be immobilized and treated with cooling and compression.
Surgical treatment is generally not required for minor ruptures. In more severe cases, the goal is to minimize scar tissue formation and restore normal muscle function.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Rehabilitation focuses on gradually increasing load, improving muscle strength and endurance, and returning to normal function and sports activities.
A gradual return to sport is essential, along with achieving adequate strength and muscle balance before resuming full activity.
Muscle ruptures have a high recurrence rate, which is why properly guided rehabilitation is crucial.
Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. Non-surgical treatment typically requires 4 to 8 weeks, while recovery after surgery may take 7 to 9 months, and up to 12 months for larger muscle groups.
Tendon Rupture
What Should You Know?
Tendons are fibrous connective tissues whose primary function is the transmission of force from muscles to bones. They are capable of withstanding extremely high loads, often several times greater than their own weight.
The most common causes of tendon injuries include:
- Reduced blood supply
- Microtrauma
- Repetitive loading
- Direct impact injuries
Spontaneous tendon rupture most commonly occurs as a result of repetitive microtrauma, mechanical overload, poor vascularization, and previous injuries. This means that localized tissue changes are often present before the actual rupture occurs.
Tendon ruptures are more common among athletes exposed to high physical loads and in older individuals due to reduced blood supply. The injury may result from direct trauma or sudden and forceful stretching under load.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the extent of the rupture and the specific tendon involved.
The most commonly affected tendons include:
- Achilles tendon
- Quadriceps tendon
- Rotator cuff tendons
- Long head of the biceps tendon
General symptoms include sudden severe pain, a snapping sensation or audible pop, significant swelling, visible deformity, and loss of muscle function.
Functionally, symptoms vary depending on the location of the injury. For example, with an Achilles tendon rupture, walking is often impossible; with a rotator cuff rupture, lifting the arm becomes difficult; and with a rupture of the long head of the biceps tendon, lifting the arm with the palm facing upward becomes impaired.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is established through a clinical examination, while MRI and ultrasound imaging are used to assess the extent of the injury.
In the acute phase, it is important to stop the activity immediately, immobilize the injured area, and apply cooling, compression, and elevation.
Treatment of a tendon rupture involves immobilization, sometimes including adjacent joints when necessary, together with the use of an elastic bandage and cold therapy.
Partial ruptures are typically treated non-surgically over a period of 6–12 weeks, while severe and complete ruptures often require surgical intervention to reduce scar tissue formation, correct deformities, and restore muscle function.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Rehabilitation begins with physical therapy in the early stages, followed by gradual progression of loading and targeted therapeutic exercise.
The goals of rehabilitation are to improve tendon function, adapt the tendon to loading demands, and restore muscular balance.
A gradual return to daily activities and sports is essential, with carefully controlled increases in loading.
Tendon ruptures carry an increased risk of re-injury and the development of chronic symptoms, which is why properly guided rehabilitation is crucial.
Achilles Tendon Rupture
What Should You Know?
The Achilles Tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus) and transmits force generated by the triceps surae muscle group (gastrocnemius and soleus).
Achilles tendon rupture most commonly occurs in athletes, particularly in sports involving sudden changes of direction and explosive movements, but it is also common among men between the ages of 30 and 50. The rupture may be partial or complete.
In most cases, the rupture occurs 2–7 cm above the tendon insertion, in an area of reduced blood supply. It is believed that a combination of degenerative changes and poor vascularization represents the primary risk factor, together with repetitive loading and microtrauma. The injury often results from sudden and forceful stretching under load or direct trauma.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture include:
- Sudden severe pain
- A snapping sound or sensation
- Swelling and bruising (hematoma)
- Visible deformity
- A noticeable gap or depression in the tendon area
Functionally, the injury is characterized by an inability to walk, bear weight on the injured leg, and perform plantar flexion of the foot.
In cases of a partial rupture, pain may sometimes be minimal or absent.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is established through a clinical examination, with the Simmonds–Thompson test being particularly important. MRI and ultrasound imaging are used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury.
In the acute phase, it is important to stop the activity immediately, immobilize the injured area, and apply cooling, compression, and elevation.
In cases of a complete rupture, surgical treatment is typically recommended. Following surgery, the tendon can regain a significant portion of its original function. Patients usually wear an orthosis with an elevated heel and undergo a structured program of physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Rehabilitation focuses on pain reduction, restoring tendon elasticity, and promoting proper alignment of collagen fibers.
For athletes, the final stage of rehabilitation includes a gradual return to sports activities, lasting at least three months. The total rehabilitation period before returning to competitive sports is approximately 10–12 months.
The highest risk of re-injury occurs between the 8th and 10th week, which is why the rehabilitation and exercise program must be followed particularly carefully during this period.
Enthesopathy
What Should You Know?
- The patellar tendon
- The Achilles tendon
- The quadriceps tendon
- The elbow and the rotator cuff
Symptoms
The symptoms of enthesopathy are similar to those of tendinopathy, but they occur exclusively at the tendon-to-bone attachment site, whereas tendinopathy often affects the entire tendon.Treatment and Rehabilitation
Enthesopathy is typically treated conservatively, with an emphasis on targeted therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation. A particularly important role is played by eccentric exercise training, which is considered a key component in both relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause of the condition.Diastasis Recti
What Should You Know?
Diastasis Recti refers to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the midline of the abdomen (linea alba).
It most commonly occurs during and after pregnancy, but it may also develop as a result of increased intra-abdominal pressure, improper exercise technique, or rapid weight gain.
The separation occurs due to the stretching of connective tissue, which reduces its ability to stabilize the trunk. As a result, diastasis recti can affect core stability, posture, and the function of the abdominal muscles.
Symptoms
The most common sign of diastasis recti is a visible bulge or gap along the midline of the abdomen, accompanied by a feeling of core weakness and reduced control of the abdominal muscles.
Some individuals may also experience lower back pain and a sensation of instability during movement. Symptoms are often more noticeable when activating the abdominal muscles, for example when rising from a lying position.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
Diastasis recti is typically treated without surgery, using targeted exercises focused on activating the deep abdominal muscles and improving control of intra-abdominal pressure.
Proper movement technique is essential, and activities that further increase abdominal pressure should be avoided. Rehabilitation aims to reduce the separation between the muscles, improve core stability, and restore normal function in daily activities.
In rare cases, when conservative treatment does not provide satisfactory results, surgical intervention may be considered.
Shoulder
Rotator Cuff Injuries
What Should You Know?
The Rotator Cuff consists of four muscles—the supraspinatus, subscapularis, infraspinatus, and teres minor—which attach to the humerus and play a crucial role in stabilizing the shoulder joint during movement.
Rotator cuff tendon injuries are among the most common causes of shoulder pain. They may develop as a result of degenerative changes, overuse, repetitive microtrauma, falls, or muscle imbalances in the shoulder region.
Degenerative changes most commonly affect the supraspinatus tendon, usually after the age of 40, although they may occur earlier in athletes and individuals exposed to repetitive loading. Over time, tendon strength decreases, increasing the risk of inflammation and injury.
Symptoms
The supraspinatus muscle is the structure most frequently affected in these injuries.
Symptoms of a rotator cuff injury include:
- Shoulder pain of varying intensity and location
- Weakness during movement, depending on the muscle involved
Pain is typically felt on the outer side of the upper arm, especially when lifting the arm above shoulder level.
Symptoms often worsen with activity, and in more advanced cases, pain may also occur at night. Reduced shoulder mobility is also common.
Treatment
Treatment of rotator cuff injuries begins with diagnostic evaluation, which may include X-rays (X-ray imaging) and/or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
For mild or early-stage conditions, an ultrasound examination (US) is often sufficient, while more complex cases may require additional diagnostic testing.
Most rotator cuff injuries can be treated without surgery through:
• A phase focused on reducing pain and inflammation
• Followed by a gradually guided rehabilitation program
The goals of treatment are to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve stability and mobility, and restore muscular balance.
Minor tendon injuries often respond well to physical therapy, while larger or complete tears—particularly in younger individuals—may require surgical treatment to fully restore shoulder function.
Frozen Shoulder
What Should You Know?
Frozen Shoulder Syndrome (adhesive capsulitis) refers to a group of symptoms affecting the shoulder joint, characterized by pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion.
It is one of the most common causes of shoulder problems and most often develops following prolonged overuse, extended immobilization, or as a consequence of certain medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, or thyroid disorders.
The exact cause is not always known, but the condition occurs more frequently in women and most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 65.
Symptoms
The condition develops gradually and is characterized by a progressive increase in pain and loss of shoulder mobility.
Patients most commonly notice difficulties with daily activities, particularly movements performed behind the back, such as dressing or personal hygiene tasks.
Typical symptoms include:
- Significant reduction in range of motion (often less than 25% of normal function)
- Marked restriction of movements, especially external rotation and arm elevation
Pain may eventually occur even at rest, followed by a noticeable loss of movement control and shoulder function.
The condition typically progresses through three stages:
- Painful phase
- Stiffness phase
- Gradual recovery phase
Rehabilitation
The foundation of treatment is targeted therapeutic exercise.
In the early stages, it is important to avoid painful movements while maintaining and strengthening movements that do not provoke pain.
Movement is essential because it stimulates the regeneration of joint structures; however, excessive loading may worsen symptoms and prolong recovery.
For this reason, a combination of exercise therapy and physical therapy is recommended to prepare and activate the tissues before rehabilitation exercises.
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, making it important to perform controlled circular movements and mobility exercises with a high number of repetitions throughout the day.
Treatment may include:
- Passive range-of-motion exercises
- Joint mobilization using manual therapy techniques
In later stages, loading is gradually increased through strengthening exercises and a greater range of motion, with a focus on restoring muscle balance and proper movement patterns.
It is important to note that recovery can be prolonged—spontaneous improvement may take between one and four years, while a properly guided rehabilitation program can significantly shorten this process.a
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
What is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is a condition in which mechanical compression of soft tissues occurs within the subacromial space, the area between the head of the humerus and the acromion. The structures most commonly affected are the rotator cuff tendons, particularly the supraspinatus tendon, as well as the subacromial bursa and the joint capsule.
The condition is most often caused by muscle imbalances—a combination of weakness of the shoulder stabilizers (the rotator cuff) and dominance of larger muscle groups, such as the deltoid muscle. This imbalance causes upward migration of the humeral head, reducing the subacromial space and leading to tissue irritation and inflammation.
The development of shoulder impingement may also be influenced by poor posture, repetitive overhead movements, and certain anatomical variations of the acromion.
Symptoms
The clinical presentation typically includes shoulder pain, reduced mobility, and muscle weakness, especially during arm elevation and abduction movements.
Pain often occurs during specific movements and may radiate into the neck and down the upper arm. It is typically dull, persistent, and more pronounced at night. Patients frequently describe a sensation of “catching,” “pinching,” or discomfort within the joint.
Treatment
The cornerstone of treatment is targeted therapeutic exercise.
In the initial phase, it is important to avoid painful movements while maintaining and strengthening movements that do not provoke pain.
Movement is essential because it stimulates the regeneration of joint structures; however, excessive loading can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery.
For this reason, a combination of exercise therapy and physical therapy is recommended to prepare and activate the tissues before rehabilitation exercises.
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, making it important to perform controlled circular movements and repetitive mobility exercises throughout the day.
Treatment may include:
- Passive range-of-motion exercises
- Joint mobilization using manual therapy techniques
In later stages, loading is gradually increased through strengthening exercises and larger ranges of motion, with a focus on restoring muscle balance and proper movement patterns.
It is important to note that recovery can be prolonged—spontaneous improvement may take between one and four years, whereas a properly guided rehabilitation program can significantly shorten this process.
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis is based on a clinical examination and specific orthopedic tests used to assess shoulder function and identify signs of impingement.
When additional tissue damage is suspected, imaging methods such as ultrasound (US) or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) are used to accurately evaluate the soft tissues and rule out tendon tears or other pathologies.
What Does Rehabilitation Involve?
Rehabilitation focuses on reducing pain, restoring mobility, and normalizing shoulder biomechanics.
In the initial phase, emphasis is placed on manual therapy and physical therapy modalities to reduce inflammation and improve range of motion. As treatment progresses, targeted therapeutic exercise is introduced to strengthen the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers while correcting existing muscle imbalances.
Particular attention is given to restoring the scapulohumeral rhythm, the coordinated movement between the scapula and the humerus.
The duration of rehabilitation depends on the severity of the condition and the length of symptoms, but in most cases, significant improvement is achieved within 2 to 4 months with consistent treatment and exercise.
Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder
What is Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder?
- Degenerative calcification – develops gradually due to changes in connective tissue quality and reduced collagen fiber integrity
- Reactive calcification – associated with previous injury, trauma, or other risk factors
What Are the Symptoms?
The primary symptom is shoulder pain, which often develops suddenly, may be severe and sharp, and can significantly restrict movement, particularly when lifting the arm above shoulder level. Pain typically:- Worsens during rest and inactivity
- Becomes more intense at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder
- May radiate into the upper arm, sometimes extending to the elbow or hand
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis is based on a clinical examination and assessment of symptoms, with confirmation provided by imaging studies. The most commonly used diagnostic method is:- Ultrasound (US) – allowing precise assessment of the location and size of the calcific deposits
- Additional imaging, such as MRI, may be used when further evaluation of the soft tissues is required
What Does Rehabilitation Involve?
Treatment of calcific tendinitis requires an individualized rehabilitation plan based on the stage of the condition and the severity of symptoms. Therapy typically combines physical treatment modalities with active rehabilitation and may include:- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), one of the most effective methods for breaking down calcium deposits
- Shoulder mobilization and gradual restoration of range of motion
- Exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers
- Additional treatments such as TECAR therapy, laser therapy, or electrotherapy, depending on the clinical indication
Supraspinatus Injury
What is Supraspinatus Injury?
Supraspinatus is one of the key muscles of the rotator cuff, and its tendon is the most commonly injured structure in the shoulder. Its primary function is arm abduction (moving the arm away from the body) and stabilization of the shoulder during overhead movements.
It is particularly important during repetitive activities such as throwing, serving, or swimming, where it provides joint control and stability.
Injury may occur due to:
- Repetitive overuse
- Sudden or explosive movements
- Long-term degenerative changes within the tendon
With age, tendon quality gradually declines, increasing the risk of injury and reducing resistance to loading.
What Are the Symptoms?
The most common symptom is shoulder pain, particularly during overhead movements and when loading the arm.
Typical symptoms include:
- Reduced mobility, especially when lifting the arm
- Pain that worsens during activity
- Weakness in the arm
In more severe cases, a partial or complete tendon tear may occur, leading to a significant loss of function and strength.
Over time, symptoms may worsen, particularly due to tendon thickening and narrowing of the subacromial space, which further contributes to irritation and inflammation.
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis is established through a clinical examination and functional shoulder tests.
When necessary, additional investigations such as ultrasound (US) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be performed. These examinations help assess the extent of tendon damage and assist in treatment planning.
What Does Rehabilitation Involve?
Rehabilitation is focused on reducing inflammation, preserving function, and gradually restoring strength and mobility.
In the initial phase, emphasis is placed on pain reduction and inflammation control, while exercises are performed within a safe range of motion, typically below shoulder level. This is followed by a gradual increase in range of motion and the introduction of targeted exercises.
Treatment may include:
- Mobility and range-of-motion exercises
- Rotator cuff strengthening exercises
- Correction of muscle imbalances
The goal is to restore a full range of motion and joint stability, allowing a safe return to everyday and sporting activities.
If symptoms do not improve despite treatment, surgical repair of the damaged tendon may be considered in selected cases.
Shoulder Labral Tear
What is Supraspinatus Injury?
- Sports involving overhead movements (throwing, handball, volleyball)
- Falls onto an outstretched arm
- Direct impacts to the shoulder
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms are often nonspecific and tend to develop gradually. The most common complaint is deep shoulder pain, which is often difficult to localize and is frequently more pronounced in the posterior part of the joint. Typical symptoms include:- Pain occurring during specific movements
- A sensation of catching, locking, or instability within the joint
- Occasionally a clicking, popping, or grinding sensation during movement
- Weakness and reduced shoulder mobility
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis is established through a clinical examination and functional shoulder tests and, when necessary, confirmed with additional imaging such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). It is important to assess overall shoulder function and distinguish a labral tear from other potential causes of shoulder pain.What Does Rehabilitation Involve?
Initial treatment is based on physical therapy aimed at reducing pain and improving shoulder mobility and stability. Treatment typically includes:- Exercises to improve shoulder and scapular stability
- Strengthening of the rotator cuff
- Improvement of movement control and coordination
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injury
What AC Joint Injury
- The acromioclavicular ligament
- The coracoclavicular ligaments (the trapezoid and conoid ligaments)
What Are the Symptoms?
An AC joint injury most commonly causes pain at the top of the shoulder, which becomes more pronounced during arm movements, particularly when lifting or loading the arm. Common symptoms include:- Tenderness over the joint
- Swelling and localized pain
- Reduced arm function and strength
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis is established through a clinical examination, during which the joint is often tender to palpation and may show visible changes in alignment. Additional imaging studies may be performed when necessary to assess the severity of the injury and rule out associated conditions.What Does Rehabilitation Involve?
The treatment approach depends on the severity of the injury. Mild and moderate injuries are most often treated successfully with physical therapy. Treatment typically includes:- Reduction of pain and inflammation
- Shoulder stabilization exercises
- Gradual restoration of range of motion and strength
Shoulder Dislocation
What is Shoulder Dislocation?
- Overhead movements (e.g., throwing or striking motions)
- Sudden and uncontrolled forces applied to the arm
- A fall onto an outstretched arm or a combination of a fall and rotational force
- Bony injuries (fractures)
- Bankart lesions (damage to the glenoid labrum)
- Hill-Sachs lesions (compression defect of the humeral head)
- Injuries to the rotator cuff
What Are the Symptoms?
A shoulder dislocation is characterized by sudden, severe pain, a sensation that the joint has “slipped out,” and a visible change in the shape of the shoulder. Movement becomes extremely limited, and arm function is significantly impaired. The entire joint is typically painful, with symptoms present in almost all directions of movement. Many patients also experience a persistent feeling of instability even after the joint has been repositioned.How Is the Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis is primarily based on a clinical examination and is usually confirmed with imaging studies such as X-rays and, when necessary, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). A detailed assessment of associated injuries is essential because recurrent dislocations may lead to permanent changes in shoulder stability and function.What Does Rehabilitation Involve?
Following a dislocation, the first step is joint reduction (returning the joint to its normal position), followed by a short period of rest and the gradual initiation of rehabilitation. Rehabilitation focuses on:- Restoring range of motion
- Strengthening the shoulder stabilizers
- Improving joint control and stability
Do You Recognize Any of These Symptoms?
It’s time to take the first step toward recovery.
