Shoulder Pain
Your shoulder is unique among the joints in your body in that it allows for the greatest mobility. It's what allows you to move your arm in almost any direction. This range of motion also leaves your shoulder vulnerable to instability, injury, and pain.
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of the "ball" at the top of your upper arm (humerus), the "socket" of your shoulder blade (scapula), and your collarbone (clavicle). The joint is kept in place and your arm is powered by the muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff. There are a number of injuries, disorders, and diseases that can affect the shoulder.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
When you experience pain in your shoulder, it may be due to a wide range of diseases, disorders, and conditions, including:
Bone spurs in the shoulder are bony growths that can form due to joint inflammation or arthritis. These growths may rub against surrounding tissues or impinge on tendons, causing pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Treatment is often aimed at reducing inflammation and relieving discomfort.
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, happens when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and stiffens. This condition leads to chronic pain and a gradual loss of mobility. Early treatment through physical therapy can help restore movement and reduce discomfort.
An infection in or near the shoulder joint, such as septic arthritis, can cause severe pain, swelling, redness, and fever. Often stemming from bacteria entering through an injury or surgery, infections require prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.
Nerve compression in the shoulder area, such as from a pinched nerve in the neck or thoracic outlet syndrome, can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness in the shoulder and arm. Identifying the source of the compression is key to alleviating symptoms and restoring function.
Swimmer's shoulder refers to overuse or repetitive shoulder movement leading to inflammation of the tendons and muscles. Common among athletes, this condition results in pain and reduced mobility. Rest, proper technique, and strengthening exercises are critical to recovery and prevention.
Trauma caused by falls, accidents, or sports injuries can damage the bones, muscles, or ligaments of the shoulder. This may result in significant pain, swelling, and instability. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term complications.
Diagnosing Shoulder Pain
Shoulder problems can occur suddenly, such as from an impact or fall, or develop gradually, as from overuse. Persistent or severe shoulder pain may indicate an underlying issue like a tear, inflammation, or nerve compression that requires medical attention.
If you're experiencing shoulder pain that is persistent or severe, you should see your orthopedic physician to have the problem diagnosed. A thorough evaluation often includes:
- A detailed medical history
- A physical examination to assess strength and range of motion
- Diagnostic imaging like X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI
Additional tests, such as nerve studies, may be recommended to pinpoint specific conditions. Identifying the root cause of your pain is the first step to creating a tailored treatment plan that can alleviate symptoms and restore mobility.
Shoulder Pain Treatment Options
Shoulder pain treatment options can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of your condition. Mild to moderate cases may respond well to options such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or immobilization with a brace or sling.
For more severe issues, interventions like corticosteroid injections, orthopedic PRP injections, or surgery may be necessary to address structural damage and restore function.
Shoulder Pain Relief in Naples, FL
Shoulder pain is a common problem. Find out how the doctors at the Joint Replacement Institute can identify the cause of your shoulder pain and alleviate your symptoms. Call (239) 261-2663 or request an appointment for effective shoulder pain treatment now.
