Differential diagnosis of shoulder injuries in sports (Reprinted from Operative Techniques in Sports Medicine, October, 2000)

The shoulder is very susceptible to injury in sports. Its use as a batterin g ram in collision sports, frequent falls and direct blows, and the demandi ng combination of power, flexibility, and repetition in overhand sports mak e this joint highly vulnerable. The complex anatomy of the shoulder creates a challenge for the clinician faced with an injury, be it chronic or acute , and many symptons overlap. Chronic symptoms are often vague and nonspecif ic, highlighting the importance of a careful history and physical examinati on. This article looks at various shoulder injuries that are relevant to sp orts and discusses their differential diagnosis.