A torn ligament or torn tendon of the shoulder usually occurs when the affected ligament or tendon has already been structurally changed over the years, for example through wear and tear or calcium deposits, or through falls/force effects on the outstretched arm. The ligaments or tendons can be overstretched, partially torn or torn completely. Shoulder corner joint injuries (Tossy 1-3), biceps tendon tears and rotator cuff tears are common.
Treatment/therapy with Tossy 1-3
The classification according to Tossy describes the extent of injuries of the 2 ligaments in a scapular joint lesion (injury of the scapula- clavicle joint). In Tossy 2 and 3 injuries, therefore, the so-called “piano key phenomenon” can be observed, in which the collarbone is raised at its outer end because the ligamentous apparatus can no longer secure it in the joint. In general, a minor injury (Tossy 1-2) can often be treated conservatively, i.e. without surgery.
In the case of a Tossy 3 injury it can be decided individually whether surgery is appropriate. This is increasingly the case with young patients who often use their arm in their job and in their leisure time and who have to work overhead, for example. For the first few weeks after the injury, a bandage or splint is worn in some cases for protection.
Once the pain has subsided, physiotherapy begins with movement exercises to maintain and improve the mobility of the shoulder. The aim is also to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder and thus improve stability in the joint. It is important that the patient receives a self-exercise program from the therapist and does this himself at home about 5 times a week.
Otherwise, movement in the shoulder may be restricted and pain may persist. In addition to the movement exercises, physical therapy (e.g. heat therapy, massage) can be used for Tossy 1-3 injuries, but initially only outside the injured structures. The following articles might be of interest to you:
- Tossy 1 means an overstretching of the two ligaments that secure the acromioclavicular joint
- In Tossy 2 there is overstretching of one band and rupture of the other band (subluxation)
- In a Tossy 3 injury both ligaments are torn (luxation)
- Exercises for acromioclavicular joint arthrosis
- Physiotherapy after a shoulder dislocation
