Shoulder Injuries in CrossFit

The idea for CrossFit was originally conceived in 1996 and then developed and founded by Greg Glassman in 2000. It is a constantly varied group of exercises that reflect the best aspects of numerous sports such as running, rowing, gymnastics and weightlifting. This highly addictive form of exercise has become wildly popular among beginners and athletes alike. With more and more people participating in CrossFit, doctors are seeing more injuries associated with this form of exercise. The most common CrossFit injury is often shoulder pain that can be caused from a rotator cuff injury, SLAP tear or even an AC separation. Dr. James Mazzara is an orthopedic shoulder specialist serving patients in Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and the surrounding Hartford communities who have experienced a shoulder injury from CrossFit activities. He understands these athletes desire after an injury to get back to the exercise they love quickly and at their pre-injury levels.

Why is the shoulder at risk during CrossFit?

CrossFit involves many different exercises that target and use the shoulder joint. Common shoulder movement during CrossFit can place stress on the joint, causing injury. Movements that put the shoulder at risk might include:

  • Overhead squats
  • Snatches
  • Push presses
  • Thrusters
  • Push jerks

The shoulder is designed to be a non-weight bearing joint and is the most mobile joint in the body. CrossFit exercises place strain on the shoulder, especially during movements such as handstand walks and push-ups. Stress on this joint, particularly during times of fatigue can change or break down the supporting structures of the shoulder capsule and athletes can experience pain from an injury or from overuse.

Is my shoulder pain from a rotator cuff injury?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscle-tendon units that provide stability and structure within the shoulder joint. These tendons help athletes perform overhead arm movements during CrossFit exercises, while keeping the shoulder stable. If an athlete has improper form, or inadequate conditioning, these muscle-tendon units can become injured. Repetitive motions overhead, especially with overtraining can also contribute to a rotator cuff injury. Shoulder pain during or after CrossFit can often be due to a rotator cuff tear, subacromial impingement, tendinosis or a SLAP tear.

How can I avoid a shoulder injury from CrossFit?

The best way for CrossFit athletes to reduce their risk of a shoulder injury is to maintain proper form for each exercise, every time they do it. The shoulder joint provides stability and its own grouping of muscles, ligaments and tendons that work together to give the shoulder strength. Careful emphasis on strengthening the supporting structures can help CrossFit athletes from experiencing shoulder injuries. External and internal shoulder rotation exercises with resistance, as well as pull downs and rows can go a long way in creating a stable and strong shoulder. These specific types of exercises can make a big difference in the overall strength and stability of the shoulder.

What if I tear my rotator cuff during CrossFit?

Unfortunately, rotator cuff injuries are common among CrossFit athletes. If an athlete experiences shoulder pain due to this injury, Dr. Mazzara strongly recommends the discontinuation of the specific exercise that is causing pain until he performs an examination. Dr. Mazzara can offer treatment options, based on the type of shoulder injury and can tailor a plan to get you back in the game as soon as possible.

Rotator cuff tears don’t always mean surgery is needed.

Approximately half of the CrossFit athletes that Dr. Mazzara sees for a rotator cuff injury do not need surgery. Often non-surgical measures such as rest, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and steroid injections relieve pain and improve function following an injury to the rotator cuff. The goal is the strengthen the shoulder joint and reduce inflammation so the athlete may return to CrossFit without further damage.

Dr. Mazzara may suggest surgical repair if non-surgical methods fail to alleviate pain or if there is significant tissue damage within the shoulder. He can often repair shoulder conditions with a minimally invasive surgical technique called Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery. Dr. Mazzara is extremely skilled in many arthroscopic shoulder techniques and can repair damaged rotator cuffs, SLAP tears or other shoulder issues that plague CrossFit athletes.

If you would like more information on CrossFit shoulder injuries and how Dr. Mazzara can help you get back to the exercise you love, please contact the offices of Dr. James Mazzara, orthopedic shoulder specialist serving Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and the surrounding Hartford communities.

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