Boxing Injuries: Rotator Cuff Impingement

boxing shoulder pain
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Aside from the physical injuries that boxers endure for their sport, many experience the same injuries that the average person may encounter. Because of the repetitious nature of their training, boxers commonly injure their shoulders. One of the most common shoulder injuries is rotator cuff impingement.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that support the shoulder joint and allow it to move freely. If the shoulder is overused, as it often is in the long training sessions boxers must complete, the muscles can become tired and start to rub against the bone and other tissues in the area. This leads to inflammation, which can cause pain and limit the range of motion of the shoulder joint.

When rotator cuff impingements are ignored, they can lead to shoulder tendonitis or bursitis. Getting treatment as soon as pain begins is key to avoiding a chronic issue or weak spot.

Boxers should see a shoulder orthopedist like Dr. Leon E. Popovitz as soon as they experience shoulder pain. It is important to get an expert diagnosis to determine if there is an underlying cause of the impingement such as a bone spur, and exactly which rotator cuff muscles are affected. With this information, Dr. Popovitz can customize a treatment plan with a Sports Rehabilitation specialist.

Conservative methods for treating a rotator cuff impingement will first include ice and other anti-inflammatories to relieve pain and swelling in the area. Physical therapy can then begin to restore range of motion. At first, manual therapy and stretching will help improve flexibility and motor control in the joint. After this, strengthening the rotator cuff muscle will be important for avoiding a future injury.

Once the muscles have been conditioned, a Sports Medicine Rehabilitation specialist can guide a boxer through high-speed power and agility exercises to compensate for the weak spot in the shoulder. With a comprehensive recovery plan, the boxer should be able to return to the ring.

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