Shoulder pain can be a frustrating and debilitating experience that impacts day-to-day activities, from lifting groceries to simply getting dressed. Understanding its causes and when to seek medical attention is essential for addressing the discomfort effectively and preventing long-term damage.
This guide will cover the common causes of shoulder pain, explain how a shoulder pain doctor diagnoses and treats these issues, and help you recognize the signs that it’s time to contact a healthcare professional. You’ll also learn tips for managing shoulder pain at home. Understanding these steps can help you take control of your health and find relief sooner.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can stem from various factors, including injuries, overuse, or underlying conditions. Below are the most common causes.
1. Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow a wide range of motion. Injuries to the rotator cuff, such as tears or tendinitis, are a leading cause of shoulder pain. These injuries often result from repetitive overhead motions involved in activities like swimming, throwing, or even painting. Symptoms may include weakness, limited range of motion, and discomfort during specific movements.
2. Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become pinched or irritated between the bones of the shoulder joint. This condition frequently affects individuals who repeatedly lift their arms overhead, such as athletes or construction workers. Shoulder impingement often causes sharp pain, particularly when raising the arm or reaching backward.
3. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain due to the thickening and tightening of the joint capsule. While the cause isn’t always clear, it’s commonly seen in individuals recovering from surgery or injuries that limit shoulder movement for extended periods. It gradually worsens over time and can significantly restrict daily activities.
4. Arthritis
Arthritis can occur in the shoulder just as it does in other joints. The most common type, osteoarthritis, results from the gradual wear and tear of cartilage over many years. This degeneration leads to pain, swelling, and a loss of mobility, often worsening with age or repetitive use.
5. Bursitis
Bursitis refers to inflammation of the bursa, a small sac that acts as a cushion between bones and other tissues in the joint. When the bursa in the shoulder becomes inflamed, it causes pain and tenderness, often making it difficult to perform routine activities.
6. Shoulder Dislocation
A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone pops out of the socket. This injury can result from a fall, sports injury, or traumatic event. Dislocations may cause intense pain, swelling, and an obvious deformity in the joint.
7. Referred Pain
Shoulder pain doesn’t always originate from the shoulder itself. Issues in other parts of the body, such as the neck, heart, or gallbladder, can sometimes lead to referred pain in the shoulder. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment in these cases.
How Specialists Diagnose Shoulder Pain
Diagnosing the source of shoulder pain requires a thorough examination and sometimes additional diagnostic tools. Specialists often follow these steps:
Medical History
Doctors will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or activities. Understanding the circumstances surrounding the pain helps pinpoint potential causes. They may also perform a physical examination to evaluate the affected area. In some cases, additional tests like X-rays or MRIs might be recommended to gather more information.
Physical Examination
A physical exam assesses the shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and any visible signs of swelling or deformity. The doctor may ask you to perform specific movements to identify the affected area.
Imaging Tests
For a closer look at the joint, specialists may recommend imaging tests such as:
- X-rays to check for bone fractures or arthritis.
- MRI scans to identify soft tissue injuries like rotator cuff tears or ligament damage.
- Ultrasounds to evaluate inflammation in the tendons or bursa.
Joint Injection Test
In cases where the diagnosis is unclear, a doctor may perform a joint injection test. This involves injecting a local anesthetic into the shoulder to determine whether the pain is coming from the joint or surrounding structures.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain
Treatment for shoulder pain varies based on its underlying cause. Specialists often create personalized plans to address the specific needs of each patient. Common treatment options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen the pain gives the shoulder time to heal.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises designed to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility can restore movement and reduce discomfort.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may help manage symptoms in mild to moderate cases.
- Corticosteroid Injections: These injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain.
Surgical Treatments
When non-surgical treatments fail, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options include:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure used to repair damage within the joint.
- Rotator Cuff Repair: A procedure to address tears in the rotator cuff.
- Shoulder Replacement Surgery: For severe cases of arthritis or joint damage, replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder with artificial implants may restore function and reduce pain.
When to See a Specialist for Shoulder Pain
While minor shoulder pain may resolve with rest and self-care, there are times when professional help is essential. Consider seeing a specialist if you experience any of the following:
- Intense or persistent pain that lasts more than a few weeks.
- Difficulty moving the shoulder or performing daily activities.
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint.
- A deformity or visible abnormality in the shoulder.
- Pain that radiates down the arm or to other areas of the body.
- Sudden or severe pain after a traumatic incident, such as a fall or car accident.
Prompt attention can prevent further complications and ensure a quicker recovery.
Take Action Against Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain should not get in the way of living an active, pain-free life. Understanding its causes and seeking timely medical attention are critical first steps toward recovery. By consulting a specialist, you can determine the underlying issue and receive personalized treatment to regain comfort and mobility.
If shoulder pain is holding you back, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider today. Taking action now can make all the difference in preventing long-term complications and enhancing your quality of life.
