SHOULDER INJURIES: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

He shoulder It is one of the most complex and mobile joints in the body, making it especially vulnerable to injury, particularly in active people and athletes. Many of these conditions can be effectively resolved through minimally invasive techniquesallowing for a faster recovery with fewer complications.

In the Dr. Narváez ClinicWe specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of these pathologies with the most advanced and personalized procedures.

Common Shoulder Injuries

Subacromial syndrome and bursitis

He subacromial syndrome It is one of the most frequent causes of shoulder pain. It occurs due to compression of the tendons of the rotator cuff against the acromion, causing inflammation and structural changes in the surrounding tissues. When this irritation persists, a subacromial bursitiswhich further aggravates the pain and functional limitation.

  • Symptoms: Pain in the upper shoulder, especially when raising the arm, loss of strength, and nighttime discomfort.
  • Diagnosis: Clinical examination, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging.
  • Treatment: Physiotherapy, hyaluronic acid injections and growth factors to reduce inflammation. In chronic cases, arthroscopic acromioplasty, which frees up the subacromial space and prevents compression of the tendons.

Rotator cuff injuries

The injuries of rotator cuff They are usually a direct consequence of untreated subacromial syndromebecause friction and chronic inflammation weaken the tendons, eventually causing them to fail. partial or complete rupture.

  • Symptoms: Constant pain on the side of the shoulder, loss of mobility, and weakness when raising the arm or performing overhead movements.
  • Diagnosis: Physical examination, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging to determine the extent of the injury.
  • Treatment: Regenerative therapies with growth factors, advanced physiotherapy and ultrasound-guided infiltrations. In cases of complete rupture or ruptures that do not respond to conservative treatment, arthroscopic surgery to repair the affected tendons.

Biceps tendon pathology and SLAP lesions

The tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii It can become inflamed, degenerate, or tear, causing pain in the front of the shoulder. SLAP lesions They affect the superior labrum, where the biceps inserts into the joint, and are common in throwing or weightlifting sports.

  • Symptoms: Pain in the front of the shoulder, clicking with certain movements, and weakness when flexing the elbow or lifting weight.
  • Diagnosis: Clinical examination with specific tests and contrast magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the labrum.
  • Treatment: Physiotherapy and regenerative therapies. In severe cases, the following is performed: biceps tenodesis (tendon fixation) or arthroscopic labrum repair.

Shoulder instability and Bankart lesions

The shoulder instability This occurs when the head of the humerus shifts out of its normal position, resulting in subluxations or complete dislocations. In cases of recurrent dislocations, there is usually a Bankart lesionwhich affects anterior glenoid labrum and predisposes to further dislocations.

  • Symptoms: A feeling of the shoulder being “loose” or dislocated, pain during certain movements, and episodes of dislocation with minimal trauma.
  • Diagnosis: X-rays to rule out fractures and contrast-enhanced MRI to evaluate the labrum and ligaments.
  • Treatment: Physiotherapy and muscle strengthening In mild cases. If there are recurrent dislocations, Bankart arthroscopic surgery to repair the labrum and restore shoulder stability.

Shoulder osteoarthritis

The shoulder osteoarthritis It is the progressive degeneration of articular cartilageThis causes pain, stiffness, and loss of function. It may be due to aging, overuse, or repetitive trauma.

  • Symptoms: Progressive pain, morning stiffness, limited movement, and a clicking or popping sensation in the joint.
  • Diagnosis: X-rays to assess bone wear and magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the condition of the cartilage.
  • Treatment: Infiltrations with hyaluronic acid and growth factors to improve lubrication and reduce pain. In advanced cases, arthroscopy for joint debridement or, if there is severe involvement, shoulder prosthesis.

Clavicle fractures

The clavicle fractures They are common in direct falls on the shoulder or impacts, as occurs in cycling, motocross and contact sports.

  • Symptoms: Intense pain in the clavicle area, visible deformity, and difficulty moving the arm.
  • Diagnosis: X-rays to assess the degree of displacement and the possible involvement of nearby structures.
  • Treatment: In non-displaced fractures, it is used sling and progressive rehabilitation. In displaced fractures or fractures at risk of malunion, minimally invasive surgery with plates and screws to restore bone alignment.

Dr. Narváez Clinic’s Approach

At our clinic we offer treatments for latest generation with a focus minimally invasiveguaranteeing a faster and more effective recovery. If you have a shoulder injury, we provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan so you can regain your quality of life and return to activity as soon as possible.