Shoulder injuries are common among skiers and snowboarders, and as winter sports enthusiasts hit the slopes, it’s important to understand the risks and know how to recognize and treat these injuries. Depending on the specific injury, there are various surgical and non-surgical treatments that can be used to treat these injuries. Here are a few of the most common shoulder injuries that come from skiing and snowboarding.
Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears can occur from falls or improper pole planting. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and restricted movement, often accompanied by a clicking sensation.
Most rotator cuff tears do not require surgery, and can be treated with rest, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to strengthen shoulder muscles. Nonsurgical treatment is often effective for:
- Partial tears, where none of the tendons are fully detached from the bone.
- Small to medium-sized tears that can often heal with conservative treatments.
More serious tears can require surgical treatment, such as arthroscopic repair for larger tears or open surgery for complex cases.
Shoulder Dislocations
This injury occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). It’s often caused by falls or collisions at high speed. Symptoms include intense pain, visible deformity, swelling, and a feeling of instability.
Shoulder dislocations require immediate treatment to reposition the joint. This is often followed by immobilization and later physical therapy.
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injuries
The AC joint connects the collarbone to the shoulder blade. There are four ligaments that work together to stabilize the joint. Injuries to the AC joint typically result from direct impacts and can range from mild sprains to complete separations of ligament and bone. Severe AC joint injuries may require surgical reconstruction and rehab, while more minor injuries can often be treated with rest, ice, immobilization and physical therapy.
Clavicle Fractures
Commonly known as a broken collarbone, this injury often results from falls onto an outstretched arm (also known as FOOSH) or direct contact to the shoulder.
Clavicle fractures that are “non-displaced” – which means that the broken bone remains in proper alignment and the bone has not shifted significantly from its original position – can heal well with arm immobilization (typically with the help of a sling). People can gradually return to normal activities without surgery.
On the other hand, displaced fractures – where the bone fragments have shifted so that they are no longer in proper alignment – often require surgery and rehabilitation.
Injury Severity and Treatments
If you have shoulder pain from a ski or snowboard injury, it’s important to pay close attention to your level of pain and other symptoms and seek medical care accordingly.
Symptoms for minor injuries include low-level pain, slight limitation in movement, and/or minimal swelling. These symptoms can typically be treated with rest and ice, over-the-counter pain medications, and gentle stretching exercises.
Moderate injuries can result in more significant pain, noticeable weakness, and restricted range of motion. These injuries may require immobilization with a sling, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections, among other treatments.
More severe injuries generally include more intense pain, severe weakness, and can also include visible deformity, and inability to move the arm. Severe injuries require immediate medical attention and often require surgery. Even if surgery is not recommended, physical therapy and long-term rehabilitation programs can offer a good path to recovery.
Injured on the Slopes? When to See a Doctor
While minor shoulder pain after a day on the slopes might resolve with rest and home care, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:
- Visible deformity of the shoulder
- Intense pain that doesn’t subside with rest and ice
- Inability to move the arm or severe weakness
- A popping or tearing sensation followed by pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
- Pain that persists for more than a few days or worsens over time
Always seek emergency care if you believe your injury is serious or life-threatening.
Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of shoulder injuries while skiing or snowboarding:
- Maintain proper physical conditioning, focusing on shoulder strength and flexibility
- Use appropriate, well-maintained equipment and ensure proper fit
- Learn and practice proper falling techniques
- Be aware of your surroundings and ski/snowboard within your ability level
- Take breaks when fatigued, as many injuries occur when muscles are tired
Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal recovery from shoulder injuries. If you experience persistent shoulder pain or any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult with an orthopedic specialist. The shoulder specialists at Advanced Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Specialists can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan to get you back on the slopes safely and enjoyably.
