Body in Motion looks after players from Bournemouth Rugby.
Body in Motion looks after some of the players from Bournemouth Rugby. Back pain, neck pain, knee pain, sprained ankles, sprained thumbs are among the most common injuries the players tend to present with.
We also help Bournemouth Rugby with specific strengthening for their injuries so they are not left with a recurring weakness, provide screening and sports massage.
Shoulder dislocations, usually sustained in a tackle or a fall, can be one of the most devastating injuries that can put a player off the pitch for months. The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints of the human body and can move in many directions which means the shoulder can dislocate forward, backward or downward, completely or partially. In addition, fibrous tissue that joins the bones of your shoulder (ligaments) can be stretched or torn, often complicating the dislocation and recovery process.
A dislocation is where the shoulder joint is forced completely out of the socket. A subluxation occurs where the joint is only partially out of the socket.
What are the signs & symptoms of a dislocated shoulder?
- A visibly deformed or out of place shoulder
- Swelling and bruising accompanied by excruciating pain
- The player will be unable to move the shoulder joint
- The player may complain of numbness or a tingling sensation from the neck which can radiate to the arms, the shoulder muscles may also be in spasm.
What is the best treatment for a dislocated shoulder?
A doctor will need to put the joint back in its socket. The player may be given muscle relaxants or a sedative before this is done to reduce pain and swelling. The shoulder will be immobilised using a sling for several weeks to allow the associated ligaments to heal. During this time it is important to regularly move the elbow, wrist and fingers to prevent them stiffening up.
Once the shoulder splint or sling is removed, physiotherapy should begin to restore range of motion and strength to the shoulder joint. Rugby and other contact sports should not be commenced until there is full movement, no pain and considerable strength in the shoulder. This rehabilitation programme may take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on the severity of the injury and how often the rugby player does his/her exercises.
Will it happen again?
It is crucial to commence early physiotherapy in order to get the best result. Unfortunately we do see several people per year who have been “left” to do their own thing and end up with a poor result. Shoulder dislocations are among the most re-occurring injuries in sport therefore treatment should commence as early as possible.
If the shoulder continues to be unstable, shoulder surgery may be required to re-attach the damaged structures. This however is still not a “quick fix” and also requires months of rehabilitation to get the shoulder back functioning normally.
Any questions please call 01202 720 300
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