Avoid These Common Mistakes After a Shoulder Injury

Shoulder injuries are common, whether from sports, work, or everyday activities. While physical therapy can help you recover faster and minimize the risk of complications, there are several common mistakes that people make after a shoulder injury. These mistakes can prolong your recovery, worsen your symptoms, and even lead to permanent damage. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common mistakes people make after a shoulder injury and how to avoid them.

1. Continuing to Use Your Shoulder

One of the most common mistakes people make after a shoulder injury is continuing to use their shoulder as normal. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience to avoid using your injured shoulder, it can actually make a big difference in your recovery. Continuing to use your shoulder can worsen the underlying injury, increase inflammation, and prolong your recovery time. It's important to give your shoulder the necessary time to heal properly before attempting any physical activity, even if it seems minor.

2. Ignoring Pain and Discomfort

Another common mistake is ignoring pain and discomfort. While it's true that some discomfort is normal after an injury, prolonged pain can be a sign of something more serious. If you experience ongoing pain or discomfort, it's important to address it with your physical therapist or doctor. Ignoring pain and discomfort can lead to further damage or complications, which can negatively impact your recovery.

3. Skipping Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process after a shoulder injury. Skipping physical therapy sessions or not following your therapist's instructions can delay your recovery and increase your risk of complications. Your physical therapist can help you regain strength and flexibility in your shoulder, prevent further injury, and develop a plan to return to your normal activities safely.

4. Returning to Normal Activities Too Soon

Another mistake people often make is returning to their normal activities too soon. It's important to give your shoulder the necessary time to heal fully before attempting any strenuous activities. Even simple tasks like lifting or carrying objects can put enough strain on your shoulder to cause further damage. Your physical therapist can help you determine when it's safe to return to your normal activities based on your specific injury and recovery progress.

5. Neglecting Rest and Self-Care

Finally, it's important not to neglect rest and self-care after a shoulder injury. Rest is essential for proper healing, and neglecting self-care can prolong your recovery time. Make sure to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and take care of your mental health as well. Your body needs all the help it can get to heal properly, so make sure to prioritize self-care and rest during your recovery.

Conclusion

Shoulder injuries can be painful and inconvenient, but they don't have to be a major setback. By avoiding these common mistakes and working with a trusted physical therapist, you can recover faster and minimize the risk of complications. At B Physical Therapy in Winter Springs, FL, we specialize in helping patients recover after shoulder injuries and return to their normal activities safely. If you're in need of physical therapy for a shoulder injury, don't hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment.