Shoulders are one of the most complex joints in the human body. They have a range of motion that allows us to reach up, out, and around, but they are also prone to injuries. A separated shoulder is one of such injuries that occurs when the collarbone and the shoulder blade get disconnected. In this article, we’ll be discussing how long it takes for a separated shoulder to heal and what you can do to aid the healing process.
What is a Separated Shoulder?
As stated earlier, a separated shoulder occurs when the collarbone meets the shoulder blade, resulting in a disconnection between both bones. This condition is usually caused by a fall or a hard blow to the shoulder.
Types of Separated Shoulder
Separated shoulders are classified based on the severity of the injury. There are three types of separated shoulders:
- Type I: This is the least severe type of separation, and it usually involves a stretching of the ligaments.
- Type II: This type involves a partial dislocation of the collarbone and usually occurs when there is a tear in the ligament.
- Type III: This is the most severe type of separation and occurs when the ligament between the collarbone and shoulder blade is completely torn.
How Long Does it Take for a Separated Shoulder to Heal?
The recovery time for a separated shoulder depends mainly on the severity of the injury. Here’s a breakdown of the recovery time for each of the types of separated shoulder:
Type I Separated Shoulder
Healing time for a Type I separated shoulder is usually around 2-3 weeks. During this period, the patient is advised to take a break from any activities that may cause pain in the shoulder.
Type II Separated Shoulder
Healing time for a Type II separated shoulder usually takes up to 6 weeks, after which the patient will be able to engage in light activities using the affected shoulder.
Type III Separated Shoulder
A Type III separated shoulder requires a more extended period of healing. The recovery time for a Type III separated shoulder is usually between 12-16 weeks. During this period, the patient may also require physical therapy to aid the healing process.
What are the Treatment Options for a Separated Shoulder?
The treatment for a separated shoulder typically depends on the severity of the injury. Below are some of the treatment options available:
Conservative Treatment
This treatment option is usually recommended for individuals with a Type I separated shoulder. It involves rest, ice therapy, pain medication, and physical therapy, if necessary. Conservative treatment is often enough to manage the pain and heal the injury.
Surgery
If the ligament is completely torn, surgery may be required to repair it. This is usually the case for a Type III separated shoulder. The surgery may involve reattaching the ligament to the collarbone using stitches, screws or plates. After the surgery, the patient may require physical therapy to regain mobility in the shoulder.
How to Aid the Healing Process of a Separated Shoulder?
Although the healing process for a separated shoulder may take some time, there are a few things you can do to aid the healing process. Some of these include:
Resting the Shoulder
It’s crucial to rest the shoulder and avoid any activities that may cause pain until it has healed completely. This will help to speed up the healing process and prevent the injury from getting worse.
Ice Therapy
Ice therapy can help to reduce swelling and manage the pain. You can apply ice to the affected shoulder for about 20 minutes, four to five times a day.
Physical Therapy
If the injury is severe, you may require physical therapy to aid the healing process. A physical therapist can help you with exercises that will help to improve your range of motion and strength.
Conclusion
A separated shoulder is a painful injury that requires adequate rest and care for a full recovery. The healing time for a separated shoulder varies depending on the severity of the injury. If you experience any symptoms of a separated shoulder, such as sharp pain or swelling, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. With a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, you can make a full recovery and regain mobility in your shoulder.
Common Questions and Answers
- How does a separated shoulder occur?
- How long does it take for a separated shoulder to heal?
- What is the best treatment option for a separated shoulder?
- How can I aid the healing process of a separated shoulder?
A separated shoulder occurs when the collarbone meets the shoulder blade, resulting in a disconnection between both bones. This condition is usually caused by a fall or a hard blow to the shoulder.
The healing time for a separated shoulder depends mainly on the severity of the injury. It can take anywhere between 2-16 weeks for a separated shoulder to heal, depending on the type of separation.
The treatment for a separated shoulder typically depends on the severity of the injury. A doctor may recommend conservative treatment, such as rest, ice therapy, and physical therapy, or surgery if the ligament is completely torn.
Some of the best ways to aid the healing process of a separated shoulder include resting the shoulder, ice therapy, physical therapy, and taking pain medication, if necessary.