Shoulder Injury Update: Diagnosis and Next Steps
Hello everyone, I’m a 28-year-old enthusiast of pole dancing and aerial hoop, and this past year has been quite challenging for my shoulder. Today’s ultrasound revealed a **minor tear in the supraspinatus muscle (part of the rotator cuff)** along with **swelling in the long head of the biceps tendon**. In **January**, I experienced a fall that led to this injury. Surprisingly, the pain subsided within a week, allowing me to get back to my regular training routine without much issue. However, during **June**, I re-injured the same shoulder; again, after about a week of discomfort, I was back to normal activities. Just this past Tuesday (**August 12**), I encountered another setback. Fortunately, two days later, the pain has significantly diminished, only becoming noticeable if my dog pulls on the leash or if I reach too high. Despite this, my doctor has suggested undergoing laser physiotherapy, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections, and a rehabilitation program. Additionally, he recommends getting an MRI. I would love to hear your thoughts on this!
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 1:10:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear you're actively engaged in pole dancing and aerial hoop, but I'm sorry to learn about the challenges you're facing with your shoulder. A minor tear in the supraspinatus and swelling in the biceps tendon can be quite bothersome, especially since you've had recurring issues. The fact that your pain has improved significantly in just a couple of days is a positive sign, but it's wise to address the underlying causes to prevent further injury.
Explanation
The supraspinatus is a key muscle in your shoulder that helps with arm movement, and an injury here can impact your performance in pole dancing and aerial activities. The swelling in the long head of the biceps tendon also suggests inflammation, which can occur due to overuse or repeated strain. Your doctor’s recommendations for laser physiotherapy, PRP injections, and rehabilitation are common treatments to promote healing and regain strength in the shoulder.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized actions you can take to manage your shoulder injury effectively, in line with your doctor’s suggestions:
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Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations:
- Laser Physiotherapy: This treatment can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- PRP Injections: If recommended, this may stimulate healing within the tissue and is often used for tendon injuries.
- MRI: Consider this if your doctor advises; it can provide a clearer view of the extent of the injury and any other issues.
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Start Rehabilitation Exercises:
- Once you have confirmed therapeutic treatments, begin gentle range-of-motion exercises to maintain mobility without straining the injury. Focus on exercises that don’t cause pain.
- Consult with a physical therapist who understands your goals in pole dancing and aerial hoop, as they can tailor a rehabilitation program to your needs.
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Pain Management:
- Use ice on the injured area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help reduce swelling if discomfort persists. Ensure you wrap ice in a cloth to protect your skin.
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help manage pain, but check with your doctor before starting any medications.
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Modify Activities:
- Temporarily adjust your pole dancing and aerial training until you're stronger and pain-free. Consider focusing on lower-impact exercises that won't aggravate your shoulder.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting any pain triggers or improvements over time. This can help you and your healthcare team adjust your treatment plan effectively.
Having the right support and addressing your rehab systematically can pave the way for a faster recovery, allowing you to return to your favorite activities stronger than before. If you have any further questions or need more support on specific exercises, feel free to ask!
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