Shoulders are important to a person’s ability to function and are responsible for a wide range of movements. Because of the vulnerability of the shoulder joint, the likelihood of an injury is very high.
As many as 20 percent of people will experience shoulder pain throughout their lifetime. While most episodes are temporary, chronic conditions that last two months or longer or do not respond to treatment may require an expert’s intervention.
Our skilled experts at NY Neurology Associates are dedicated to providing the best treatment for their patients. By understanding your unique situation, we can create an effective treatment plan to relieve pain. Schedule an appointment now for pain management at one of our offices in New York.
What Are the Causes of Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can be caused by an injury or some other shoulder problems. Below are some of the common causes of shoulder pain.
- Muscle strains: Rotator cuff tears and muscle damage can occur when a backward force is placed on the shoulder or arm. A rotator cuff tear will usually occur in the front of the shoulder.
- Rotator cuff tendinitis: This is when the rotator cuff tendons in your shoulder become inflamed. It can happen through injury or develop over time.
- Shoulder joint instability: Some people have a natural looseness in their joints that causes instability and pain.
- Bone fractures in the surrounding areas: Fractures can occur through impacts such as from a fall, while playing sports, or an automobile accident.
- Pinched nerves: This usually occurs when a nerve from the neck is pinched or irritated near the shoulder.
- Dislocated shoulder: This can happen if your arm is pulled backward or rotated too far. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket.
- Separation: This is when an injury causes the shoulder blade to separate from the collarbone.
- Osteoarthritis: When the cartilage that lines your shoulder wears down, it can cause pain and stiffness. Bone spurs can develop as a result.
- Bursitis: The bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint of the shoulder. Repetitive use can cause the bursa to be inflamed, resulting in bursitis.
- Frozen shoulder: This is when the tissues around the shoulder become thicker and stiffer. It can result in pain and a reduced range of motion.
- Referred Pain: When this discomfort results from injuries or conditions from other areas of the body, it is called "referred pain." The pain usually does not get worse with the movement of the shoulder.
What Are the Symptoms of a Shoulder Problem?
There are certain symptoms you may experience which indicate you have a problem with your shoulder. Below are some of the possible symptoms that indicate a problem with your shoulder.
- Discomfort in and around your shoulder
- Reduced range of motion in the shoulder
- Feeling like your shoulder could pop out of its socket
- Weakness in your shoulder joints
When to See a Doctor About Your Shoulder Pain
There are certain instances of shoulder pain that require you to see a doctor right away. Below are some of the cases when you should see a doctor.
- You have severe pain in your shoulder.
- Your shoulder looks deformed.
- You can’t use your shoulder at all.
- There is sudden swelling in your shoulder.
- There is numbness or weakness in your arm or hand.
- If the pain from your shoulder radiates down your arm and chest, this could be a sign of a heart attack and would require emergency attention.
How Shoulder Pain is Diagnosed
An accurate diagnosis of your shoulder pain is essential to provide the proper treatment. At NY Neurology Associates, our physicians carry out several diagnostic methods.
First, you will be asked to relate your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. Our specialists will also perform a physical exam to pinpoint the reason for your pain.
Medical tests may be performed to get an accurate diagnosis. The following medical tests may be used to diagnose your shoulder pain.
- X-rays
- MRI scans
- Blood tests
How to Treat Shoulder Pain
There are a variety of methods that can be used to help you manage your shoulder pain. The doctors at NY Neurology Associates may recommend the following treatments for shoulder pain.
- Modifying activity
- Physical therapy
- Pain medication
- Corticosteroid injections
- Shoulder surgery
Contact Us for Shoulder Pain Relief
The skilled team at NY Neurology Associates is dedicated to providing the best treatment for their patients. By understanding your unique situation, we can create a practical treatment plan to help relieve your pain.
Schedule an appointment now for pain management at one of our offices in New York. We look forward to helping you feel yourself again!