Possible Diagnosis: Rotator Cuff Strain/Tear

Symptoms

• Pain in the shoulder when raising the arm, especially above shoulder height.

• Weakness or a catching sensation during overhead activities.

• Pain at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder.

Types

• Partial Tear: Involves a partial rupture of the rotator cuff tendon.

• Complete Tear: A complete rupture, leading to significant weakness and loss of function.

Causes

Rotator cuff injuries are common in throwers (javelin, discus, and shot put), as these athletes require repeated overhead motion, which stresses the shoulder joint.

• Mechanism: Repetitive strain or sudden force can cause a tear or inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons.

• Poor posture or mechanics: Can lead to impingement and overuse of the rotator cuff.

Where It Occurs for Track & Field Athletes

Particularly common in throwers due to the high velocity and repeated forceful shoulder motions. Most common in javelin, though, as stated previously, can occur in other throwing events such as discus and shot put.

Rehabilitation Phases

Phase 1 (0-2 weeks)

• Goal: Decrease pain and inflammation, restore mobility.

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the shoulder.

• Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling.

• Range of motion: Start with pendulum exercises and passive range of motion without pain.

Phase 2 (2-6 weeks)

• Goal: Gradually regain strength and shoulder stability.

• Strengthening exercises: Focus on external rotations with resistance bands, and isometric shoulder exercises.

• Scapular stabilization: Exercises like scapular squeezes to restore shoulder mechanics.

Phase 3 (6-12 weeks)

• Goal: Full return to overhead movements and sports activities.

• Progressive resistance exercises: Continue to strengthen the shoulder using free weights or cables.

• Sport-specific drills: Reintroduce throwing mechanics under supervision to ensure proper form.

Prevention Tips

1. Rotator Cuff Strengthening: Regularly include rotator cuff exercises like external rotations.

2. Scapular Stability: Ensure proper shoulder blade movement to reduce strain on the rotator cuff.

Exercise Videos