How to Rehabilitate a Shoulder Injury in Football

Shoulder injuries are common among football players, with all the pulling, tackling and pounding on the field. When a shoulder injury occurs, it's important to follow appropriate rehabilitation procedures to ensure proper healing.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine the necessary path of rehabilitation based on the type of injury. The two most common football shoulder injuries are shoulder dislocation and AC separation (where the ligaments between the clavicle and acromion bone tear). Other football shoulder injuries that require rehabilitation include rotator cuff tendonitis, shoulder bursitis, impingement syndrome and frozen shoulder.

• 2

  Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. It can be used three times per day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.

• 3

  Keep the shoulder stable. An arm sling worn for the three weeks after an injury is an effective stabilization method. The length of time needed varies with age, so follow your doctor's instructions.

• 4

  Regain motion. Your shoulder and surrounding muscles become stiff and weak during the rest period, so it's important to slowly stretch them and regain some of range of motion. Stand in front of a wall or door and slowly walk your fingers upward, as far as you can go without pain. Gradually increase this height. Hold a lightweight stick or object in front of you with both hands. Lead with your good arm and shoulder. Make small, medium and large circles. Allow your weak shoulder to follow along with minimal resistance.

• 5

  Strengthen the rotator cuff muscles. These muscles surround your shoulder, so if you work hard to strengthen them, they work hard to protect your shoulder and keep it stable. Visit the American Family Physician website for the four best exercises to strengthen your rotator cuff (see Resources).

• 6

  Ask your doctor if ultrasound therapy is right for you. Heat therapy, especially ultrasound, has been proven to promote healing of weak muscles and bones.

• 7

  Seek surgical help. In some cases, the football shoulder injury may be severe enough that surgery is the best option. The rehabilitation period may delay your participation back on the field, but it may be your only option if physical therapy has not helped. Discuss these options with your doctor.