Summer invites us outdoors—sun, sea, and active recreation are in full swing. But increased physical activity at the beach—whether swimming, diving, beach volleyball, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), jet skiing, or water skiing—can raise the risk of shoulder injuries.
The Shoulder: A Complex, High-Mobility Joint
As Dr. Ioannis Tsolos, Orthopedic Director at Metropolitan Hospital, explains: “The shoulder has the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body, allowing us to lift, reach, rotate, and position our arms in countless ways. This versatility supports everyday tasks—from dressing and eating to working and playing sports. That’s why understanding common sports-related shoulder injuries, how to prevent them, and how to manage them effectively is essential for staying safe and active all summer long.”
Most Common Shoulder Injuries
Rotator Cuff Tear: A frequent injury causing pain, stiffness, and weakness in the arm.
Impingement Syndrome / Tendinitis: Occurs when tendons in the shoulder become compressed, leading to pain and inflammation.
Dislocation: The upper arm bone slips out of its socket, resulting in sharp pain and joint instability.
Labral Tear: A tear in the cartilage rim surrounding the shoulder socket, often causing pain, instability, and a sensation of the joint ‘catching’ or locking.
Biceps Tendinitis: Inflammation of the biceps tendon—often due to overuse or repetitive motion—causing pain in the front of the shoulder.
Preventing Shoulder Injuries
Warm Up Properly: Begin with dynamic stretches and mobility drills before any activity. Gradually increase intensity and effort as you start your sport.
Use Correct Technique: Learn and practice proper form for your chosen activity—whether it’s serving in beach volleyball or paddling in SUP—to avoid unnecessary strain.
Strengthen Supporting Muscles: Target the shoulder stabilizers and core muscles with strength training to improve joint control and reduce injury risk.
Rest and Recover: Listen to your body. Take breaks when you feel pain or fatigue—and apply ice post-activity to aid recovery.
Treating Shoulder Injuries
Cold Therapy: Apply ice for 15–20 minutes, three to four times daily, to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: NSAIDs or other non-prescription analgesics may help manage pain and inflammation.
PRP or Corticosteroid Injections: Consult your physician to determine if regenerative or anti-inflammatory injections are appropriate.
Physical Therapy: Guided rehabilitation exercises can restore mobility, strength, and stability.
Surgery: In severe cases—such as major rotator cuff tears or recurrent dislocations—surgical intervention may be necessary.
Early recognition and appropriate management are key. If pain persists, worsens, or limits daily function, seek professional evaluation promptly.