Shoulder Pain
What Hurts?
Introduction
Shoulder pain can significantly impact daily activities, affecting not only the shoulder joint but also overall arm mobility. In the field of orthopedics, we delve into the nuances of shoulder pain, examining the conditions that may contribute to it, emphasizing the importance of seeking a medical evaluation, detailing potential treatments by orthopedic specialists, and outlining initial steps towards seeking help.
About Shoulder Pain in Orthopedics
Orthopedic-related shoulder pain encompasses a spectrum of conditions affecting the shoulder joint, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. From acute injuries to chronic issues, orthopedic specialists aim to diagnose and address these conditions to restore optimal function and alleviate discomfort.
Conditions that Cause Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain may be attributed to various orthopedic conditions, including:
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Shoulder Impingement
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
- Labral Tears
- Shoulder Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis (e.g., Biceps Tendinitis)
- Fractures or Dislocations
- AC Joint Separation
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Why You Should Get a Medical Evaluation
Seeking a medical evaluation for shoulder pain is crucial for several reasons:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Professional assessment helps identify the specific orthopedic cause of shoulder pain.
- Tailored Treatment Plans: A medical evaluation ensures a personalized approach, addressing your unique condition and needs.
- Preventing Complications: Early intervention can prevent the progression of orthopedic issues and minimize potential complications.
How an Orthopedic Doctor May Treat Shoulder Pain
Orthopedic specialists employ various treatments for shoulder pain, including:
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches to improve strength, flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Medications: Prescribed pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage shoulder pain.
- Therapeutic Injections: Injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the shoulder joint.
- Corticosteroid Injections
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
- Bursa Injections
- Trigger Point Injections
- Subacromial Injections
- AC Joint Injections
- Glenohumeral Joint Injections
- Suprascapular Nerve Block
- Intra-articular Injections (Shoulder)
- Rotator Cuff Tendon Sheath Injections
- Subdeltoid Injections
- Infraspinatus and Teres Minor Injections
- Subcoracoid Injections
- Glenoid Labrum Injections
- Intralesional Injections for Tendinopathies
- Scapulothoracic Injections
- Axillary Nerve Block
- Distension Injections for Frozen Shoulder
- Viscosupplementation Injections
- Surgical Intervention: Minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat certain shoulder conditions.
- Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery
- Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
- Labral Repair Surgery
- Bankart Repair Surgery
- SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) Repair
- Mumford Procedure (Distal Clavicle Resection)
- Shoulder Joint Replacement (Total Shoulder Arthroplasty)
- Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
- Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty)
- Latarjet Procedure
- Capsular Release Surgery
- Subacromial Decompression
- Distal Clavicle Excision
- AC Joint Reconstruction Surgery
- Biceps Tenodesis
- Biceps Tenotomy
- Capsular Plication Surgery
- Distal Clavicle Osteotomy
- Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction
- Suprascapular Nerve Release
Taking First Steps Towards Getting Help
If you're experiencing shoulder pain, taking the first steps towards getting help involves:
- Consulting an Orthopedic Specialist: Schedule a consultation with our experienced orthopedic team for a comprehensive evaluation.
- Providing Detailed Information: Share specific details about your pain, including its nature, onset, and any triggering activities.
- Actively Participating in Your Care: Be an engaged participant in your treatment plan, following recommendations and communicating changes in your condition.
Taking the First Step
If you're ready to take control of your back and spine pain, the first step is reaching out to our experienced team. Don't let pain limit your life any longer. Schedule a consultation, and let us work together to craft a plan that suits your unique needs and lifestyle.