5 Things that May Cause Shoulder Pain
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Shoulder Pain
Please watch this video on how to wear a sling properly for shoulder pain.
The shoulder is a unique joint and is one of the most frequently injured joints of the body. A reason for this is that the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. The shoulder has three planes of motion to provide a high level of function.
This high degree of mobility creates a larger potential for the development of shoulder pain and injury.
The cause of shoulder pain can be any number of conditions. The five common things that cause shoulder pain are:
- Glenoid labrum injuries
- Shoulder Tendinitis
- Rotator cuff tears
- Frozen shoulder
- Radiating pain from the neck
Shoulder Anatomy
If you want to learn more about the anatomy of the shoulder, please watch this shoulder anatomy video.
Shoulder Anatomy
Glenoid Labrum Injuries
The glenoid labrum is ring-like cartilage structure that provides extra stability to the shoulder. Injuries to the glenoid labrum often cause clicking or popping in the shoulder joint. They are a frequent source of shoulder pain. The Glenoid Labrum is often injured in baseball pitchers and the recovery from surgery is a difficult process.
This structure can be injured through repetitive motion injury. Activities related to the stress of throwing can also cause injury.
You can also read this article on the 5 Shoulder Symptoms You Should Not Ignore.
Shoulder Tendinitis
Local inflammation of the tendinous structures of the shoulder is referred to as tendinitis. Shoulder Tendonitis is often the cause of persistent shoulder pain that intensifies with use.
This is typically the result of overuse or over activity of the shoulder, especially with overhead activities.
Though it can present itself in patients of all types this is typically more common in the highly active population. Dr. Kamal Bohsali of the JOI Beaches Office states “Tendonitis is a general term that we use for inflammation of the tendon of a muscle. In the shoulder, this involves inflammation of the rotator cuff tendon tissue. Tendonitis is usually a result of repetitive overhead activity with the shoulder. This may be due to a new exercise regimen or a work-related obligation.
The initial management of this problem, assuming normal x-rays, is activity modification, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, ice, and physical therapy. Sometimes cortisone injections may be used to reduce the inflammation associated with tendonitis. Tendinitis can be acute or long-standing (chronic). Calcific tendonitis is one type of inflammatory process of the rotator cuff tendon that involves calcium formation within the tendon. It is uncommon for people to require surgery to address tendinitis of the rotator cuff.
Dr. Kamal I. Bohsali, is a board certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon with special interests in the management of pathologic conditions of the shoulder and elbow.
Shoulder Pain
Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears can occur for a number of reasons and can occur in many different patient populations. Many people often think that the rotator cuff is the rotator cup. The correct medical term is rotator cuff.
Rotator cuff symptoms are often associated with motion and strength loss. Rotator cuff tears are often associated with pain that prevents patients from sleeping or awakens patients at night.
Rotator cuff tears can be associated with degenerative processes of aging and overuse. They can also be associated through the trauma of a fall or a one-time lifting injury.
Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a painful shoulder condition that is associated with shoulder stiffness and inability to lift the arm over the head.
Sometimes this can occur after an injury or surgery. Other times, it is not associated with any sort of trauma at all.
Patients experiencing this condition can have mild to severe motion restrictions. Generally, patients may have associated pain with stretching and activities that require high levels of mobility.
Radiating Pain in the Shoulder
Certain conditions of the neck can also result in shoulder pain.
These conditions are typically associated with pain that is described as numbness or tingling.
Injuries to the cervical disks or to the nerves exiting the cervical spine can be a source of shoulder pain. This type of pain is typically referred to as radiating pain. This means that the origin of pain is not in the shoulder itself, but in the neck.
Regardless of the source of your shoulder pain, the experts at Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute will be able to conservatively manage and treat all of the sources of the shoulder pain.
A team approach, our physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists and massage therapists all work together to provide you with the best care possible to diagnose shoulder pain.
When to See an Orthopaedic Shoulder Specialist
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or discomfort, it’s important to know when to see an orthopaedic shoulder specialist. While some shoulder symptoms can improve with rest and home care, there are certain signs that suggest you need specialized care.
Persistent pain that doesn’t get better with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers is a key indicator. This could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition that needs medical attention. Seeing a physician can help prevent further damage to the shoulder.
Another sign to look out for is limited movement in your shoulder joint. If you find it hard to move your arm in certain directions or experience stiffness, it’s advisable to seek treatment from an orthopaedic shoulder specialist.
Also, if you’ve had a sudden injury or trauma to your shoulder, it’s crucial to see a specialist. This includes dislocations, fractures, or any other acute shoulder injuries that may need immediate attention.
By seeking treatment from an orthopaedic shoulder specialist, you can benefit from their extensive knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and treating shoulder conditions. These specialists have specialized training in the musculoskeletal system and are equipped with the latest techniques and technologies to provide comprehensive care.
When you schedule an appointment with JOI, you can expect personalized attention and a thorough evaluation of your shoulder symptoms. Our team of experienced orthopaedic shoulder specialists will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals.
Shoulder Pain
If you have recently had a shoulder surgery, please watch this helpful video: Dressing the Upper Body After an Injury or Surgery. Finally, to schedule an appointment at a JOI Rehab Center, please call 904-858-7045.
Related Articles:
- How get rid shoulder pain,
- Rotator cuff repair
- Rotator cuff tears
- Types of shoulder surgery
- Rotator cuff exercises
Also, if you have recently had a shoulder surgery watch our video on How to Properly Put on an UltraSling 4 or Dressing the Upper Body After an Injury or Surgery
To schedule a regular appointment at one of our offices you can schedule online, click below or call 904-JOI-2000. New to JOI, you can now schedule and cancel follow up appointment with your physician by using the JOI Patient Portal.