Aftercare of a torn ligament at the shoulder | Torn shoulder ligament

Aftercare of a torn ligament at the shoulder

After the operation, immobilization is prescribed with a Gilchrist bandage. The duration depends on the surgeon’s instructions and is between 4 and 8 weeks. During this time the ligament structures have the opportunity to adapt and heal.

Physiotherapy can be prescribed to support the healing process. This involves movement exercises in the wrist and elbow joint to avoid complications. Nevertheless, complete healing is a longer process, so that many patients still struggle with residual symptoms 3-6 months after the operation. The duration of healing also depends on the severity of the injury, but also on the age and general condition of the patient.

What are the complications of torn ligaments in the shoulder?

Complications include recurrent pain and the development of chronic instability despite surgery. Often, a new operation with a tendon transplant must then be considered. Furthermore, arthrosis can develop due to poorer healing.

Calcifications in the shoulder can also occur. The consequences are restricted mobility and increasing abrasion of the protective cartilage substance. In the longer term, the complications in turn lead to increasing instability in the acromioclavicular joint.

Diagnosis of a torn ligament of the shoulder

In addition to the anamnesis of the accident and a clinical examination, the X-ray ensures the diagnosis of a torn ligament and shows the extent of the injury. During the examination by the doctor, the “piano touch phenomenon” is often observed in a Tossy III injury. Due to the rupture of both ligaments, the clavicle protrudes very far upwards and can be pressed down like piano keys and then jump up again.

X-rays of the shoulder joint are taken in 2 planes. In the images obtained, one finally sees a clear widening of the joint space and mostly a displacement of the clavicle. In addition, X-rays can be taken under stress to confirm the diagnosis.

The patient holds a 10-15 kg load on the affected arm. The x-ray image then shows a clear protrusion of the lateral clavicle end. This topic might also be of interest to you: Arthroscopy of the shoulder

Duration of a torn ligament of the shoulder

More severe ligament ruptures (Rockwood IV-VI and III in young patients) are treated surgically using various techniques. It is expected to take 3-4 months until the shoulder is fully able to bear weight again. Strong and excessive strain during sports and work should not be resumed before 6 months.

In general, it cannot be assumed that the patient is unable to work. In the first few weeks, however, a sick note can be issued by the doctor treating the patient. For the time thereafter, it may be necessary to discuss with the employer whether other possibilities of employment in the work process are possible.

The healing time can vary greatly and depends on the size of the injury, the patient’s cooperation and the fitness level of the shoulder. If a patient has pronounced musculature and was active in sports before the torn ligament, faster healing can be assumed. However, renewed torn ligaments are quite possible.

Therefore, patients should strengthen their shoulder permanently with their own exercises and thus prevent further problems. Torn ligaments that are less severe (Rockwood I-III: overstretching and partial tears) are treated conservatively. The shoulder consists of several joints.

In addition to the actual ball joint, there is also the acromioclavicular joint. It is formed by the end of the collarbone and a part of the acromion. In medical terminology, this joint is called the acromioclavicular joint.

It is surrounded by a strong joint capsule and is secured from above, below, front and back by thick ligament structures. The acromioclavicular ligament is located between the acromion and the clavicle, and the coracoclavicular ligament is located between the coracoabral process, a projection of the shoulder blade to the front, and the clavicle. The latter takes over about 80% of the strength of the shoulder joint, which shows how important these ligaments are for optimal movement in the shoulder area.