What is shoulder
The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the human body, made up of three main bones: the clavicle, the scapula and the humerus. It also has several muscles, ligaments and tendons that allow for a wide range of movements. It is one of the most mobile joints in the body, which makes it susceptible to injury and pain.
Shoulder Anatomy
The shoulder joint is made up of three main parts: the glenohumeral joint, the acromioclavicular joint and the sternoclavicular joint. The glenohumeral joint is primarily responsible for shoulder movements, allowing rotation and elevation of the arm. The other two joints are responsible for shoulder stability and support.
Main shoulder muscles
The main shoulder muscles are the deltoid, supraspinatus, infraspinatus and teres minor. The deltoid is responsible for raising the arm, while the other muscles help rotate and stabilize the shoulder. It's important to keep these muscles strong to prevent injuries and shoulder pain.
Common shoulder injuries
The most common shoulder injuries include tendonitis, bursitis, impingement syndrome and rotator cuff injuries. Tendonitis and bursitis are inflammations of the tendons and synovial bags in the shoulder, while impingement syndrome occurs when tendons get stuck between bones. Rotator cuff injuries affect the muscles and tendons responsible for rotating the shoulder.
Treatments for Shoulder Pain
Treatment for shoulder pain can include rest, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory drugs and, in more serious cases, surgery. Physiotherapy is essential to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve the mobility of the joint. Surgery, on the other hand, is indicated in cases of serious injuries that do not respond to conservative treatments.
Preventing Shoulder Injuries
To prevent shoulder injuries, it is important to keep the shoulder muscles strong and flexible, practice good posture and avoid repetitive movements that overload the joint. In addition, it is essential to warm up properly before physical activities that involve the use of the shoulder.
Exercises to Strengthen the Shoulder
Some exercises that can help strengthen the shoulder include lateral raises, external and internal rotations, rowing and shoulder flexions. It is important to perform these exercises with the guidance of a physical education professional or physiotherapist to ensure correct and safe execution.
Conclusion
In short, the shoulder is a complex joint and susceptible to injury, so it's important to keep the shoulder muscles strong and flexible to prevent pain and problems. With proper care and the practice of specific exercises, it is possible to maintain the health and functionality of the shoulder throughout life.
