Why Does My Shoulder Hurt From Wrestling?

Why Does My Shoulder Hurt From Wrestling?

Wrestling is an intense sport that requires a lot of physical strength and agility. It puts a significant amount of strain on various parts of the body, including the shoulders. If you are experiencing shoulder pain after wrestling, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind it and how to prevent further discomfort.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain in Wrestling

1. Overuse Injuries:

The repetitive movements involved in wrestling can lead to overuse injuries in the shoulder joint.

These injuries occur when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments around the shoulder are strained or inflamed due to excessive use. Common overuse injuries include tendonitis (inflammation of tendons), bursitis (inflammation of fluid-filled sacs), and impingement syndrome (compression of soft tissues).

2. Dislocation/Subluxation:

Shoulder dislocation or subluxation occurs when the humerus bone (upper arm bone) pops out of its socket partially or completely.

The high-impact nature of wrestling increases the risk of these injuries, especially during takedowns or throws. Dislocation/subluxation can cause severe pain and instability in the shoulder joint.

3. Rotator Cuff Tears:

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. The forceful movements involved in wrestling can lead to tears or strains in these tissues, causing pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.

Treatment and Prevention Strategies

Treatment

• RICE Method: Resting your shoulder, applying ice to reduce inflammation, compressing the area with a bandage, and elevating the arm can help alleviate pain and swelling.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen your shoulder muscles and improve stability. They may also use techniques like manual therapy or ultrasound for pain relief.
• Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may provide temporary relief. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
• Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged tissues or stabilize the shoulder joint.

Prevention

To prevent shoulder injuries while wrestling, consider the following:

• Warm-up: Always warm up before practice or matches. Perform dynamic stretches and exercises that Target the shoulders and surrounding muscles.
• Proper Technique: Learn proper wrestling techniques from a qualified coach to minimize strain on your shoulders.
• Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises that focus on the muscles around the shoulder joint.

  Stronger muscles provide better support and stability.

• Cross-Training: Engage in activities that complement wrestling and improve overall fitness. Cross-training can help develop balanced strength throughout the body.

Conclusion

Injuries are common in any physically demanding sport like wrestling. Shoulder pain is often a result of overuse, dislocation/subluxation, or rotator cuff tears.

Seeking proper treatment and following prevention strategies are crucial for recovery and long-term well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.