Common Rugby Injuries: Rugby Shoulder

Rugby is an intense contact sport. Shoulder injuries are very common in rugby. They include:

 

Common Rugby Shoulder Injuries

• Dislocated Shoulders: A player can dislocate their shoulder, resulting in damage to the muscles and ligaments. These require immediate medical attention, i.e. being put back in place, as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Recurring shoulder instability is very common after a dislocation. Optimal rehabilitation is essential for stability after dislocation.

 

 

• Muscle Strains: The rotator cuff can be strained or torn during acute events, or develop over time due to repetitive, forceful movements (i.e. overuse injury).

 

 

• AC Joint Injuries: This small joint at the shoulder tip can suffer from acute strains or overuse injuries. Pain will be felt at the tip of the shoulder with overhead movements, or when the player’s arm is crossed over their chest. Treatment includes pain management, supportive taping, and rehabilitation, with severe cases possibly requiring surgery or immobilizing their arm in a sling for some time afterwards.

 

 

• Labrum Injuries: Sudden trauma or repetitive stress can cause severe shoulder pain and limited movement. This may present as deep shoulder pain that is worse when you try to move your arm. You may not be able to sleep on your shoulder and have pain at night. This may need to be repaired surgically but some may also respond well to conservative management through a progressive physiotherapy program.

 

• Traction or Compression Nerve Injuries: Often occur during tackles, where the player’s arm is outstretched and their head is forced in the opposite direction, causing immediate electrical pain and weakness in the arm. Symptoms usually resolve quickly, but in more severe injuries, they can take days. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and restoring nerve integrity, as well as shoulder and neck mobility and strength.

  

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapists are key in managing Rugby Shoulder injuries through:

• Comprehensive Assessment - Evaluating the extent of the injury.
• Manual Therapy to ease pain and improve mobility.
• Rehabilitation Exercises focused on restoring strength and stability.
• Taping techniques for additional support.
• Personalized Rehabilitation Plans - Tailored strategies to ensure effective recovery and reduce the risk of future injuries.

If you experience any sport-related injuries or need to restore optimal physical health, you should make an appointment to seek advice from a professional physiotherapist or medical expert to obtain a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

 

Further reading:

• Common Rugby Injuries:  Rugby Knee