Rehabilitation (Deltoid strain)

The following guidelines are for information purposes only. We recommend seeking professional advice before attempting any rehabilitation.

Aims of rehabilitation:

Sports massage can play a valuable role in regaining the extensibility and condition of the muscle.

Grade 1 Strain

Apply ice for the first 24 hours (15 mins at a time) then apply heat after the first 24 hours.
Stretch the back of the shoulder as shown above. Do not neglect other shoulder stretches also.
Light exercises - 4 sets of 10 repetitions 3 times a week (for example). Wait 3 days before starting a strengthening programme.
Gradually build up the weight to strengthen the muscles.
You should ease down your training for a week or two but no need to stop unless you are getting pain.

Grade 2 Strain

Rest and apply ice or cold therapy for 3 to 5 days.
After the acute stage is over (the athlete should be able to use the muscle to move the arm without pain) apply heat (hot water bottle, hot baths, see a specialist for ultrasound).
Begin stretching (hold stretches for 30 secs, 5 times a day).
From day 7, light exercises (4 sets of 10 reps three times a week).
Cycling 2 to 3 times a week.
From day 14, start to slowly get back into your sports activities.

Grade 3 Strain

Week 1: The athlete should seek medical attention immediately.R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.) Use crutches.
Week 2: Pain free static contractions ( if it hurts don't do it). Heat with hot water bottle, hot bath or ultrasound.
Week 3: All of the above plus increase the intensity of static contractions 4 sets of 10 reps 3 times a week.
Week 4: Pain free exercises e.g. light lateral raises and rotator cuff exercises, 4 sets of 10 reps 3 times a week. Cycling 2 or 3 times a week. Start stretching exercises, hold for 30 secs, 5 times a day.
Week 5: Build up exercises, 4 sets of 6 to 8 reps 2 days a week. Gradually build up to sports specific exercises.