II. Causes
- Shoulder Dislocation
- Upward pressure from improper crutch use
- Repetitive overuse (pitching, swimming)
- Surgery (arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair)
III. Symptoms
- Arm Fatigue on throwing and other overhead activities
- Posterolateral upper arm Paresthesias may occur
IV. Signs
- Weak abduction and external rotation at the Shoulder
V. Diagnostics
-
Nerve Conduction Studies and EMG
- Consider repeating at 3-6 months after treatment
-
Shoulder MRI
- Typically only helpful for evaluation of differential diagnosis (e.g. labral disorder)
- Compression of axillary nerve is unlikely to be visualized on MRI
VI. Management
- Shoulder Range of Motion Exercises with posterior capsule Stretching
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Sport specific biomechanical modification to prevent reinjury
VII. Course
- Anticipate a 3-6 month course with therapy
