Treatment of a capsule tear in the shoulder

In the case of a capsule tear in the shoulder, a so-called conservative therapy is carried out in most cases, which involves various measures. Only in the case of very serious injuries involving ligaments, bones or muscles may direct surgical therapy be necessary. With all other forms of capsule tears in the shoulder, the joint should first be relieved and spared for a few weeks.

If necessary, a special bandage is applied or the shoulder is taped. After an injury, it is also helpful to cool the shoulder region temporarily to prevent excessive swelling. The temporary use of an anti-inflammatory painkiller in the form of tablets may also be appropriate.

Furthermore, a gradual resumption of exercise should be carried out. Professionally instructed and individually adapted physiotherapy is best suited. In the long term, after the injury has healed, a recurrence of an injury, such as a capsule tear, can be prevented as best as possible by targeted training of the shoulder muscles.

Nevertheless, after a one-time injury, there is often an increased susceptibility to renewed damage to the capsule. Especially if dislocations in the shoulder joint occur more frequently, surgical treatment may be necessary to stabilize the joint. Since the rupture of the capsule in the shoulder region is often accompanied by a shoulder dislocation, it is also important to take a look at the following article: What is the best therapy for a shoulder dislocation?

In the case of injuries in the shoulder area such as a contusion or an overload reaction, it can be helpful to tap the joint. In the case of a capsule tear, however, immobilization in a bandage or bandage is usually indicated. In general, if the shoulder is injured, it is best to have the taping done by a trained person.

It is possible to apply the tapes yourself. However, knowledge of the anatomical course of the muscle fibers is necessary for this. In addition, certain postures must be adopted when applying the tapes and the strips must be applied partly under tension and partly loosely.

Due to this multitude of factors to be considered, some things can be done wrong when taping, so that the desired effect is not achieved. In addition, in most cases it does not represent the appropriate form of treatment for a capsule tear in the shoulder. In the case of such an injury, one should seek medical treatment and discuss with the doctor which treatment options are possible.

Is taping suitable for torn ligaments?
Taping of a torn muscle fiber