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Snow shoveling becomes an unavoidable chore as winter descends on New York City. However, this essential task can lead to injuries, especially in the shoulders and elbows. Snow shoveling can result in discomfort and lasting damage, whether due to poor posture, overexertion, or repetitive movements. Fortunately, the orthopedic doctors in Midtown at the New York Sports Medicine Institute are here to help. Our specialists offer both prevention strategies and effective treatments to ensure you stay injury-free during the snowy months.
Common Shoulder and Elbow Injuries Caused by Snow Shoveling
- Shoulder Strains and Sprains
Shoulder injuries are common among those who shovel snow. Lifting or twisting can overextend the muscles and ligaments, leading to strains or sprains. These injuries often cause pain, weakness, and difficulty moving the shoulder. If you experience these symptoms, visiting an orthopedic doctor in Midtown can help you get the needed treatment.
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that support the shoulder joint. Repetitive shoveling motions can stress these muscles, leading to inflammation or even tears. Rotator cuff injuries cause significant pain, restricted movement, and weakness in the shoulder. An orthopedic doctor in Midtown can diagnose this injury and help guide you through the recovery process.
- Tendonitis
Repetitive activities like snow shoveling can also cause tendonitis, especially in the shoulder or elbow. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons become irritated and inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function. “Tennis elbow,” or lateral epicondylitis, is a common form of tendonitis in the elbow that may develop from shoveling. If you notice pain or swelling in your elbow, an orthopedic doctor in Midtown can provide the appropriate treatment.
- Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs cushion your joints. Repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on the elbow or shoulder during shoveling can irritate the bursae, resulting in swelling and discomfort. Seeking help from an orthopedic doctor in Midtown can help you manage bursitis and prevent further complications.
How New York Sports Medicine Institute Can Assist
The New York Sports Medicine Institute specializes in treating musculoskeletal injuries, including those caused by snow shoveling. Our team of expert orthopedic doctors in Midtown is dedicated to providing personalized care that helps you recover quickly and prevent future injuries.
- Thorough Evaluation and Diagnosis
When you consult with an orthopedic doctor in Midtown, we perform a comprehensive assessment to evaluate the extent of your injury. Our doctors will conduct a physical exam and may recommend imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to get a clear picture of what’s going on with your shoulder or elbow.
- Customized Treatment Plans
Once we diagnose the injury, our orthopedic doctors in Midtown will develop a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs. This may include rest, ice, and over-the-counter medications for mild injuries. For more complex injuries, our doctors may recommend therapeutic exercises, corticosteroid injections, or minimally invasive surgery, depending on the nature of the injury.
- Therapeutic Exercises for Recovery
Exercises are often a key component of recovery. After diagnosing your injury, our orthopedic doctors in Midtown may recommend exercises or prescribe physical therapy. They will guide you through exercises that strengthen your muscles, restore flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery Options
If conservative treatments aren’t enough to resolve your injury, our orthopedic doctors in Midtown offer minimally invasive surgical procedures. These surgeries involve smaller incisions, which leads to less pain, a quicker recovery, and minimal scarring.
- Education and Injury Prevention
Prevention is just as important as treatment. Our orthopedic doctors in Midtown educate patients on the importance of proper technique, stretching, and warm-ups to prevent injuries while shoveling snow.
Tips for Preventing Shoulder and Elbow Injuries While Shoveling Snow
Though it’s impossible to eliminate the risk of injury completely, these tips can help reduce the likelihood of shoulder and elbow pain during snow shoveling:
– Warm Up
– Use Proper Form
– Choose the Right Shovel
– Take Frequent Breaks
– Wear Proper Footwear
Contact Us Today
If you’re dealing with shoulder or elbow pain from snow shoveling, don’t wait to seek help. Our team of orthopedic doctors in Midtown is committed to providing the highest level of care, from diagnosis to recovery. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us here. Stay safe this winter, and let us help you take care of your shoulders and elbows so you can enjoy the season without pain!
