Need Assistance with My Shoulder Issue
Age: 23, Height: 185 cm, Weight: 80 kg I lead a very active lifestyle engaging in swimming, cycling, running, and gym workouts, alongside physical work. I had a clavicle fracture five years ago. For the last two years, I have been experiencing an ongoing sensation in my left shoulder and scapula that feels like they are floating or lack stability. Recently, over the past six months, this feeling has intensified particularly during activities that involve pulling my arm. While I don’t suffer from severe pain, there are times when I feel mild discomfort that radiates from the shoulder blade towards my neck, accompanied by a general tightness in my neck. However, it’s not anything that limits my daily activities. I maintain a regular workout schedule at the gym and, although I don't have significant deficits in strength, the left side feels somewhat weaker at times. My range of motion seems to be within normal limits. What concerns me most is an ongoing impression that my shoulder is not securely seated in the glenoid cavity, which gives me the feeling that it lacks proper stabilization or cannot achieve a complete set in position.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 6:00:50 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning sensations in your left shoulder that may be affecting your overall comfort, especially during physical activities. Given your active lifestyle and history of a clavicle fracture, it's important to understand the underlying issues contributing to your symptoms.
Explanation
The feelings of instability and mild discomfort in your shoulder could stem from several factors, such as muscle imbalances, overuse injuries, or even a condition like shoulder impingement. The sensation of your shoulder lacking stability could be related to issues in the shoulder joint or surrounding muscles and tendons. It's common for athletes to experience mild discomfort in these areas, especially after engaging in repetitive motions.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized actions you can take to address the situation:
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Focus on Strengthening Exercises:
- Rotator Cuff Strengthening: These small muscles stabilize the shoulder. Incorporate exercises like external rotations and scapular stabilization exercises.
- Shoulder Blade Control: Work on exercises that improve the scapula's function, such as rows or wall slides.
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Mobility & Stretching:
- Incorporate stretches for your shoulder, neck, and upper back to relieve tightness. Focus on gently stretching the pectoral and trapezius muscles.
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Posture Awareness:
- Evaluate and adjust your posture during workouts and everyday activities. Maintain good alignment—shoulders back and down, avoiding slouching.
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Modify Activities:
- Be mindful of activities that exacerbate your symptoms, especially those involving pulling motions. Consider adjusting your technique or the amount of weight you are lifting.
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Application of Ice and Heat:
- If you experience discomfort after specific activities, using ice can help reduce inflammation. Heat therapy may assist with muscle tension.
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Consider a Physical Therapy Program:
- If symptoms persist or worsen, engaging with a physical therapist could provide guided rehabilitation and personalized exercises to enhance stabilization and strength.
Monitoring how your symptoms respond to these interventions over a couple of weeks is essential. If you notice any worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, loss of range of motion, or functional limitations, further evaluation may be warranted.
Remember, it's important to listen to your body, and addressing these issues early can help you maintain your active lifestyle.
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