Shoulder Injuries in Athletes

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, allowing athletes to throw, swing, swim, and lift with an incredible range of motion. With this high level of function comes a higher vulnerability for injury. At ActiveKidMD, we understand how both acute and chronic shoulder pain can limit performance, affect confidence, and impact a young athlete both on and off the field.

Chronic shoulder pain and dysfunction in children and teens often result from overload due to repetitive activity. With over 25 years of experience working with young athletes, we have identified common biomechanical issues, such as tightness in the front of the chest, limited shoulder internal rotation, and poor position of the scapula that contribute to the great majority of shoulder overload injuries.

We are also familiar with how more acute injuries, such as shoulder dislocations and separations, can lead to labral tears and other bone and soft tissue injuries.

Our sports medicine team tries to simplify this complex joint by identifying the root cause of each injury using detailed physical exams, imaging when necessary, and a personalized treatment plan that may include activity modification, rehabilitation exercises, or sport-specific reconditioning. We work closely with families, physical therapists, coaches, and athletic trainers to promote proper mechanics and long-term joint health, helping young athletes recover stronger and smarter.

Whether your child is a competitive baseball player, a swimmer, or simply active every day, we’re here to help them move without pain and get back to doing what they enjoy, safely.

Shoulder Injury Videos

Shoulder Injury Insights from the Active Kid Blog