What is a separated shoulder?
Shoulder Separation
A shoulder separation occurs when there are tears in the ligaments on the top of the shoulder. This can happen through a traumatic blow to the top of the shoulder or by falling onto an outstretched arm. There are different grades of shoulder separation that depend on how many ligaments are involved.
Treatment for shoulder separation begins with assessing the degree of injury to the ligaments involved, as well as ruling out other injuries that can cause shoulder pain. A Momentum Physical Therapist can assess and determine the cause of shoulder pain and provide appropriate treatment. If the cause is shoulder separation, treatment will include rest, taping to help offload the joint, manual techniques such as massage, intramuscular stimulation (IMS), and specific stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles that stabilize the shoulder.
If you are dealing with any shoulder pain, call Momentum Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab at 403-982-5600 to see how we can help!
Raina Hawthorne is a physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.