
What is Post-traumatic Stiffness of the Shoulder?
Post-traumatic stiffness of the shoulder is the inability of the shoulder joint to move freely due to the damage sustained to the normal gliding surfaces of the shoulder as a result of trauma (injury) or surgery. The trauma affects the muscles and capsule surrounding the shoulder joint resulting in reduced or loss of motion and functional impairment. Post-traumatic stiffness is a disabling complication that affects your ability to perform normal day-to-day activities.
Anatomy of the Shoulder
The shoulder is a ball and socket joint. The head of the humerus (upper arm bone) fits into the glenoid cavity of the scapula (shoulder blade). Connective tissue called the shoulder capsule surrounds the shoulder joint, holding the bones in place. This is lubricated by synovial fluid. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint.
Causes of Post-Traumatic Stiffness of the Shoulder
Causes of post-traumatic stiffness of the shoulder include:
- Bone fracture
- Injury/trauma
- Previous surgery
- Joint dislocation
- Malunion (improper healing of a fractured bone)
Signs and Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stiffness of the Shoulder
Signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stiffness of the shoulder include:
- Dull or achy pain
- Muscle tightness
- Restricted range of motion
- Inability to move shoulder
- A sensation of grinding on shoulder movement
Diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stiffness of the Shoulder
Evaluation of your medical history coupled with a physical examination of the affected shoulder is the first step in the diagnosis of post-traumatic stiffness. Subsequently, the doctor will look for flexion range of motion and inflammation. An X-ray, a CT scan, or an MRI may also be ordered to confirm the initial diagnosis.
Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stiffness of the Shoulder
Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment options include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections to relieve pain
- Physical therapy to improve your range of motion
- Heat application to reduce pain
- Manipulation under anesthesia
Surgery
Your surgeon may recommend shoulder arthroscopy if the conservative treatment does not work. During surgery, the scar tissue will be removed and tight ligaments, if any, will be dissected. Following surgery, physical therapy will be advised to bring a full range of motion and strengthen the muscles.
Prevention
Shoulder stiffness can be prevented in many cases with proper care and timely treatment. Early mobilization and proper therapy can help avoid stiffness in cases of shoulder injuries and fractures. Also, in cases where diseases can damage the articular cartilage, timely and proper treatment can help in minimizing cartilage damage and avoiding long term shoulder stiffness.
Related Topics:
- Shoulder Instability
- Anterior Shoulder Instability
- Posterior Shoulder Instability
- Arthritis of the Shoulder
- Sternoclavicular Arthritis
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Arthritis
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Osteoarthritis
- Rotator Cuff Tear
- Rotator Cuff Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Shoulder Labral Tear
- SLAP Tears
- Shoulder Labral Tear with Instability
- Shoulder Fracture
- Fracture of the Shoulder Blade (Scapula)
- Clavicle Fracture
- Glenoid Fractures
- Proximal Humerus Fractures
- Periprosthetic Shoulder Fracture
- Shoulder Ligament Injuries
- Baseball & Shoulder Injuries
- Throwing Injuries of the Shoulder
- Sternoclavicular Joint Injury
- Sternoclavicular (SC) Joint Injuries
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injuries
- Shoulder Impingement
- Subacromial Impingement Syndrome
- Internal Impingement of the Shoulder
- Snapping Scapula
- Frozen Shoulder
- Shoulder Trauma
- Shoulder Bursitis
- Rotator Cuff Bursitis
- Proximal Biceps Tendinitis
- Shoulder Dislocation
- Bicep Tendon Rupture
- Little League Shoulder
- Shoulder Tendonitis
- Shoulder Disorders
- Acromioclavicular Joint Sprains
- Subluxation
- Overhead Athlete's Shoulder
- Post-traumatic Stiffness of the Shoulder
- Sternoclavicular Joint (SC joint)
- Rotator Cuff Re-tear
- Partial Rotator Cuff Tear
- Sternoclavicular Separation
- AC Joint Separation
- Proximal Biceps Tenodesis
- Proximal Biceps Tendon Rupture
- Long Head Biceps Tendon Rupture
- Multidirectional Instability of the Shoulder
- AC Joint Dislocation/Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation
- Calcification Tendinitis