Shoulder Pain: Boxing Injuries

Most Common Shoulder Injuries in Boxing

Boxing shoulder injuries tend to occur due to repetitive motion and muscular fatigue. When the shoulder muscles tire, surrounding structures, like tendons and stabilizers, compensate, increasing the risk of injury. Below are the most common boxing injuries involving the shoulder:

Rotator Cuff Tears or Injuries

A leading cause of shoulder pain in boxing is damage to the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and the rotator cuff tendons that surround the shoulder joint. 

These shoulder muscles control arm movement and provide shoulder stability, including internal rotation and external rotation. In boxing, rotator cuff injuries occur primarily due to overuse, resulting in inflammation or microtears.

Subacromial Bursitis

Subacromial bursitis is a frequent issue for those experiencing shoulder pain after boxing. It involves inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the rotator cuff tendons as they move beneath the shoulder blade. Repetitive punches thrown during boxing training can aggravate this area, reducing shoulder mobility and increasing pain.

Torn Labrum

The labrum stabilizes the shoulder socket by securing the upper arm bone (humerus) in place. A torn labrum can result from a sudden traumatic incident, repetitive stress, or improper technique. This type of shoulder injury may cause instability in the shoulder blade, clicking sensations, or decreased range of motion and may require surgery to restore proper joint function.

How to Identify the Source of Pain

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body. When you experience shoulder pain, it’s essential to consult with an orthopedic specialist. Diagnosis usually includes a physical examination and imaging to assess the condition of the rotator cuff, tendons surrounding the joint, and labrum.

How Can Shoulder Injuries in Boxing Be Prevented?

Prevention is key to maintaining shoulder health and performance. Here’s how boxers can reduce the risk of shoulder injuries:

Shoulder Strength Training

Building shoulder stability starts with strengthening the shoulder muscles, including the rotator cuff muscles. Focus on strength exercises that target the upper arm, deltoids, and rotator cuff. This helps stabilize the shoulder socket and minimize injury risk from repetitive motion.

Adequate Rest and Recovery

Many shoulder injuries develop when athletes don’t properly rest between training sessions. Tendons develop microtears with use, and without adequate rest, these can worsen. Incorporate light cardio, dynamic stretches, and properly rest your shoulders to boost blood flow and healing.

Technique and Form

Poor form can result in some of the most common boxing injuries. When punches are thrown with incorrect technique, the shoulder joint absorbs more stress. A qualified coach can help correct mechanics and reduce the likelihood of overuse or traumatic injuries.

Treatment For Shoulder Pain

Managing shoulder pain varies based on the diagnosis and severity. Here are typical treatment options for shoulder rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and other injuries:

• Rest: Many injuries heal with rest and activity modification. This reduces stress on the rotator cuff tendons and surrounding structures.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises help improve range of motion, joint stability, and muscle balance through targeted strength training and mobility exercises.
• Medications: You may be prescribed medications to help reduce inflammation and pain. Over-the-counter NSAIDs—such as ibuprofen or Advil—can also be helpful. In some cases, your doctor may give you steroid injections to help reduce swelling.
• Manual Therapy & Myofascial Release: These techniques relieve soft tissue restrictions and improve mobility.
• Shoulder Surgery: Some shoulder problems will require surgical intervention. Large rotator cuff tears and some labrum tears may require shoulder surgery. Your doctor will thoroughly evaluate the extent of your injury before deciding to operate. These injuries can usually be performed through arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you experience shoulder pain or suspect you may have a shoulder injury from boxing, contact Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow. Our experts in shoulder health are experienced in treating rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, and other boxing-related conditions. 

We serve patients in Marietta and Atlanta, GA. Reach out today and take the first step toward recovery.