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Conditions
Deltoid Strain
Category:
Diagnosis:
Description:
Predictors:
Shoulder
Deltoid Strain
Pain/tenderness over the deltoid after overuse or sudden load. Usually resolves with rest, NSAIDs, ice and short PT.
Pain with resisted shoulder abduction; focal tenderness; mild swelling/bruising.
Non-Operative
Therapy:
Light Activities:
Moderate Activities:
Relative rest; gentle stretching; progressive strengthening of deltoid and scapular stabilizers.
2–4 weeks
3–6 weeks
Surgery
Surgery Probability:
Very low
Indications:
Recovery to Light Activities:
Recovery to Moderate Activities:
Sucess Rates:
Complication Rates:
Rare severe tears not improving with conservative care.
1–2 weeks for ADLs
4–6 weeks
High with non‑operative care
3–6 weeks
Predictors:
High with non‑operative care
Chronic pain <5%; re‑injury 5–10%
Helpful Devices
Reusable Cold Pack
Shoulder Compression Sleeve
Kinesiology Tape
Light Dumbbell Pair
Massage Ball
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