Shoulder Pain from Low Sidearm Throwing: When to Seek Help? - Orthopedics

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Shoulder pain resulting from low sidearm throwing can be a common issue, especially for individuals who engage in sports or activities that require repetitive overhead motions. The symptoms you describe—pain during movement, discomfort when lifting heavy objects, and persistent soreness—suggest that you may be experiencing a soft tissue injury, such as a rotator cuff strain or tendinitis.

Given that you have already undergone an X-ray examination which showed no fractures or bony abnormalities, it is essential to consider the possibility of soft tissue injuries that may not be visible on X-rays. These can include injuries to the rotator cuff, bursitis, or even shoulder impingement syndrome. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of motion. Overuse or improper throwing mechanics can lead to inflammation or tears in these structures, resulting in pain and limited mobility.


When to Seek Help
1. Persistent Pain: If the pain continues for more than a few days and does not improve with rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain medications, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Persistent pain can indicate a more serious underlying issue that may require intervention.

2. Difficulty with Daily Activities: If you find it challenging to perform daily tasks, such as lifting objects, reaching overhead, or even sleeping comfortably due to shoulder pain, this is a sign that you should consult a healthcare professional.

3. Swelling or Bruising: If you notice swelling, bruising, or a visible deformity in the shoulder area, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation promptly.

4. Loss of Range of Motion: If you experience a significant decrease in your ability to move your shoulder, it is essential to have it assessed by a healthcare provider.


Recommended Specialists
For your situation, it would be best to consult with an orthopedic specialist who focuses on shoulder injuries. An orthopedic doctor can perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend further imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess the soft tissues around your shoulder. An MRI can provide detailed images of the rotator cuff, tendons, and other structures, helping to identify any tears or inflammation that may be causing your symptoms.


Treatment Options
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, resting the shoulder and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as throwing or lifting heavy objects.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs. This may include exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and correct any throwing mechanics that may contribute to the injury.

3. Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

4. Corticosteroid Injections: If conservative treatments do not provide relief, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in the shoulder joint.

5. Surgery: In cases where there is a significant tear in the rotator cuff or if conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged tissues.


Conclusion
In summary, if you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain following low sidearm throwing, it is important to seek evaluation from an orthopedic specialist. Early intervention can help prevent further injury and facilitate a quicker recovery. Remember to listen to your body and avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms until you receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.