Shoulder injuries are common in sports like golf and tennis, where repetitive motions and overuse can lead to strain and damage. While minor discomfort may resolve with rest, some injuries require specialized care. Knowing when to consult a shoulder specialist can make all the difference in your recovery and long-term performance. Here are some signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
Common Shoulder Injuries in Golf and Tennis
The repetitive swinging motions in golf and tennis can place significant stress on the shoulder joint. Some common injuries include:
- Rotator Cuff Tears: Damage to the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. This often results in pain and limited range of motion.This injury is particularly common in tennis players during serves and in golfers during high-force swings.
- Shoulder Impingement: Frequent overhead movements, such as serving in tennis or executing a golf swing, can lead to shoulder impingement. This condition occurs when inflamed tendons or the bursa are compressed, resulting in a pinching sensation when lifting the arm.
- Shoulder Labral Tears: Labral tears affect the cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket, causing instability, pain, and a catching sensation. This injury is often seen in athletes due to the repetitive overhead and rotational movements required in tennis and golf.
Ignoring these injuries can worsen symptoms and delay recovery, potentially requiring more invasive treatments.
When to See a Shoulder Specialist
Consult a shoulder specialist if you experience:
- Persistent Pain: Pain that doesn’t improve after several days of rest or over-the-counter treatments.
- Limited Mobility: Difficulty lifting your arm or rotating your shoulder.
- Weakness or Instability: Feeling like your shoulder could "give out" during movement.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: These sounds, accompanied by pain, may indicate a more serious injury like a labral tear.
- Swelling or Bruising: Signs of trauma that may require imaging to diagnose.
Treatment Options: From Therapy to Surgery
A shoulder specialist will evaluate your injury with a physical exam and possibly imaging like an MRI. Treatment options include:
- Physical Therapy: Strengthens muscles and improves mobility for minor injuries.
- Injections: Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid injections) can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve joint lubrication.
- Surgery: For significant tears, a specialist may recommend minimally invasive repair or, in severe cases, a shoulder joint replacement to restore shoulder function.
Shoulder injuries from golf or tennis are common, but they don’t have to sideline you permanently. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to seek expert care. Early intervention not only speeds up recovery but also helps prevent future injuries.
Getting You Back to the Game You Love
Dr. Brian Hill’s practice specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries for active individuals. Whether it’s a rotator cuff tear, impingement, or other shoulder conditions, we provide personalized care to help you recover and return to the activities you enjoy. Schedule an appointment today.
AUTHOR: Brian W. Hill, M.D. is a board-certified shoulder surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute. He is an expert in advanced reconstructive and arthroscopic techniques, and serves as an assistant team physician for the Washington Nationals and their affiliates. Dr. Hill treats shoulder injuries and arthritis with a focus on patient-centered care and clear communication.
