Name of the Condition

• Separation of muscle (nontraumatic), left shoulder
• Also known as nontraumatic muscle detachment in the left shoulder.

Summary

• Separation of muscle in the left shoulder refers to a condition where muscle fibers in this area become detached from each other without any associated injury or trauma. This can affect normal shoulder function and cause discomfort.

Causes

• The exact cause of nontraumatic muscle separation is not well understood but may include genetic predispositions, overuse, degenerative changes within the muscle, or other underlying health conditions.

Risk Factors

• Increasing age
• Repetitive overhead activity or overuse of the shoulder
• Pre-existing shoulder conditions or degenerative diseases

Symptoms

• Pain in the left shoulder area
• Weakness or decreased range of motion in the shoulder
• Feeling of instability or unusual movement in the shoulder
• Possible visible deformity or misalignment

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare professional
• Imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound to visualize muscle structure
• Assessment of patient history and activity level

Treatment Options

• Rest and avoidance of activities that worsen the condition
• Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve range of motion
• Pain management using NSAIDs or other medications
• In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to reattach and stabilize the muscle

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, many patients experience improvement in symptoms and shoulder function.
• Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is important to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary.

Complications

• Chronic pain and persistent weakness if left untreated
• Potential development of compensatory injuries or conditions due to altered shoulder mechanics

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in regular shoulder strengthening and flexibility exercises
• Avoid repetitive overhead activities if possible
• Maintain good posture and body mechanics during activities

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden or severe pain in the left shoulder
• Noticeable weakness or inability to move the shoulder
• Unusual swelling or deformity

Additional Resources

• American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) website
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) for comprehensive medical research articles

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the side (left shoulder) for proper coding.
• Double-check for the absence of trauma, as this distinguishes the condition as nontraumatic.
• Be aware of related codes for shoulder muscle injuries that may be traumatic.