Winter sports, from skiing to snowboarding, require mobility and strength in your shoulders. Unfortunately, these activities may lead to rotator cuff injuries, a common issue among athletes navigating snowy terrains. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and when to seek treatment can help you recover faster and get back to enjoying your favorite winter activities.
Why Winter Sports Pose a Risk to Your Rotator Cuff
- Sudden Falls: Falls are common in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. When athletes instinctively extend their arms to break a fall, the impact can overstress the rotator cuff, leading to strains or tears.
- Overhead Movements: Activities like snowboarding tricks or ice hockey shots involve repetitive overhead motions. Over time, these movements can strain the rotator cuff, especially if proper form is not maintained.
- High-Impact Collisions: Winter sports often involve high-speed activities where collisions are a risk. A direct impact to the shoulder or a sudden jarring movement can damage the rotator cuff muscles or tendons.
- Improper Technique or Equipment Use: Using incorrect techniques or poorly fitted equipment can place undue stress on the shoulder joint. For example, gripping ski poles incorrectly or using improper form when throwing in ice hockey can lead to injuries over time.
- Repetitive Strain: Sports like curling or cross-country skiing involve repetitive shoulder motions. Overuse without adequate rest can cause wear and tear on the rotator cuff, increasing the risk of injury.
- Cold Weather Stiffness: Cold temperatures can reduce muscle flexibility and joint mobility, making the rotator cuff more susceptible to strain or injury during sudden, forceful movements.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries can range from mild strains to severe tears, with symptoms varying accordingly. Common signs to watch for include:
- Shoulder pain: A dull ache that worsens with activity or at night.
- Weakness: Difficulty lifting your arm or carrying objects.
- Reduced range of motion: Stiffness or discomfort when moving your arm.
- Clicking or popping sounds: These can occur with certain movements.
If left untreated, minor injuries can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain or even permanent damage.
When to Seek Treatment
Knowing when to seek professional care is crucial for effective recovery. You should consult an orthopedic specialist if:
- Pain persists for more than a week despite rest and over-the-counter medication.
- Your shoulder feels unstable during daily activities.
- The pain disrupts your sleep or limits your ability to perform basic tasks.
- You notice visible swelling, bruising, or deformity around the shoulder joint.
Treatment Options for Winter Athletes
Treatment for rotator cuff injuries ranges from conservative measures like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to surgical intervention for severe tears. Prompt diagnosis can help prevent complications and speed up recovery, allowing you to return to the slopes or rink sooner.
Stay Proactive This Winter
If you suspect a rotator cuff injury, don’t wait to seek help. Early treatment can make all the difference in protecting your shoulder and enjoying an injury free season.
As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive surgical techniques, Dr. Shah can help diagnose and treat rotator cuff issues, so you can get back to the activities you love.
AUTHOR: Dr. Anup Shah is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Sports Medicine Orthopedic surgeon specializing in Knee and Shoulder Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona at Banner Health. Dr. Shah uses a patient-centric and an evidence-based approach to help his patients achieve their desired goals.
