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Summer is a time for outdoor activities and water sports, but it comes with an increased risk of shoulder injuries.

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body and is prone to injuries during summer activities such as swimming, surfing, SUP, sea or jet skiing, or even after a fall on the beach.

Understanding injuries, prevention measures, and treatment options is vital to enjoying a safe and injury-free summer.

The most common injuries are as follows:

• Rotator cuff tear: Usually the result of an injury that causes pain, stiffness, and weakness in the arm.
• Impression syndrome – tendonitis: This occurs when the tendons in the shoulder become pinched between the shoulder blade and the humerus bone. It can be caused by repetitive overhead movements, such as throwing a ball or swimming.
• Dislocation – Dislocation: A dislocation occurs when the humerus bone comes out of its socket in the shoulder joint. Water sports that involve falls, collisions, or sudden movements can lead to shoulder dislocation.
• Labial cartilage injury: The labral cartilage is a ring that surrounds the shoulder socket, providing stability to the joint. Labral cartilage rupture is caused by acute trauma or repetitive stress, leading to shoulder pain, instability, and a feeling of locking.
• Biceps tendonitis: Overuse or repetitive motion can cause inflammation or irritation of the biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder. This condition can cause pain in the front of the shoulder and upper arm.

Preventing Shoulder Injuries

Prevention plays a vital role in reducing the risk of shoulder injuries. Here are some helpful tips to keep your shoulders safe during summer activities:

• Warm-up and Stretching: Before engaging in any physical activity, perform a proper warm-up routine that includes shoulder-specific stretches. This helps improve flexibility and prepares the muscles for exercise.
• Proper Technique: Whether you are playing a sport or doing an exercise, learn and practice proper technique. If needed, seek guidance from a trainer.
• Gradual Progression: When starting a new activity or sport, gradually increase the intensity and duration to allow your shoulder muscles to adapt and strengthen over time.
• Rest and Recovery: Take regular breaks during physical activities to get adequate rest. Proper rest and recovery help prevent overuse injuries.
• Strength and Conditioning: Participate in a regular strengthening and conditioning program that targets your shoulder muscles. This helps improve stability and reduces the risk of injury.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Injuries

In the event of a shoulder injury, it is important to seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment from an orthopedic specialist. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the injury, and include:

• Rest and ice: For mild shoulder injuries, resting the affected area and applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Injection therapy: In some cases, injections of corticosteroids or biological agents (PRP) are recommended.
• Physical therapy
• Surgical treatment: For serious shoulder injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or extensive tears of ligaments and tendons, surgery may be needed to repair the damage. In most cases, a definitive solution is provided with minimally invasive shoulder arthroscopy.