From the Research
Treatment for a deltoid injury typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) initially to reduce pain and swelling, as well as gentle stretching and strengthening exercises, with the most recent evidence suggesting pre-emptive ice pack cryotherapy can be effective in reducing pain 1. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and restore function to the deltoid muscle.
- Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (400-800mg every 6-8 hours with food) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 4000mg daily) can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises should begin after the acute pain subsides, usually within 48-72 hours, and may include pendulum exercises, wall crawls, and resistance band work, starting with 5-10 repetitions and gradually increasing.
- Physical therapy is often recommended for moderate to severe injuries, typically 2-3 sessions per week for 4-6 weeks.
- Severe deltoid tears may require surgical repair followed by a structured rehabilitation program lasting 3-6 months. It's essential to avoid activities that cause pain and to progress gradually to prevent re-injury, with the deltoid muscle being crucial for shoulder movement and stability, so proper rehabilitation is necessary to restore full function and prevent chronic shoulder problems 2. The use of cryotherapy, such as ice packs, has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation, and pre-emptive ice pack cryotherapy can be a useful adjunct to traditional RICE treatment 1. Overall, a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates rest, ice, compression, elevation, pain management, and gradual rehabilitation can help promote healing and restore function to the deltoid muscle, with the most recent evidence guiding treatment decisions 1.