Padres Fernando Tatis Jr. Shoulder Injury: It Won’t be a Quick Fix

• August 3, 2021

Padres Fernando Tatis Jr. suffered another partial left shoulder dislocation, against the Colorado Rockies, on Friday, according to the MLB website. MRI revealed Tatis had increased inflammation and instability, the team said on Saturday.
 
While sliding into third base, Tatis’ landed with his left shoulder in an outstretched position, followed by the shortstop immediately grabbing the shoulder.
 
Tatis’ first left shoulder injury during spring training was minor, resulting in no missed time. His second injury, a subluxation (to the same shoulder), in April put him out for a little over a week in April. With this third injury, the shortstop will “potentially” return mid-August after tests revealed inflammation and instability.
 
This third shoulder injury brings much concern, and it may warrant more than just rehab.
 
A normal healthy shoulder joint has a good balance between mobility and stability. The shoulder structure — the labrum, ligaments, muscles, and capsule — provides stability during dynamic sporting tasks (throwing, pitching, etc.). However, some may have increased shoulder laxity, but it may not be an issue because it doesn’t cause any issues.
 
 
A subluxation is when there is excessive shoulder motion that causes the shoulder joint to come out of its socket and pop back in — causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, etc. A dislocation is even more severe where the shoulder pops out and requires manual force to relocate it back into the socket.
 
Tatis has injured this left shoulder at least three times within four months. With each shoulder dislocation, there is an increased likelihood one will continue to experience this issue, further damaging the structures that provide stability to the shoulder.
 
The shortstop is on the 10-day injury list, but it could be longer to gain the dynamic stabilization of that left shoulder, given Tatis’ shoulder injury history.
 
Every shoulder instability condition — even if surgery is required — will undergo conservative measures; The focus will be on reducing the inflammation, strengthening the rotator cuff/scapular muscles, and improving one’s endurance.
 
If conservative options fail to address the instabilit, surgery is usually the next option.
 
Tatis, 22, will likely be out longer than his previous injuries. Given how early he is in his career, he may eventually need surgery to prevent any future recurrent shoulder injuries that could cause further damage, impacting his career in the long run.
 
Our Phoenix Spine & Joint doctors will help you decide whether surgery may be your best option if you find yourself experiencing repeated shoulder injuries