There are many injuries and medical conditions that can result in shoulder pain.
If you’re experiencing pain in your shoulder, it could indicate a problem that requires medical attention. Don’t live with the pain a moment longer – see an orthopedic professional near you to find out what’s causing your shoulder pain and what your options are when it comes to treatment.
Here are just a handful of issues that can cause shoulder pain:
- Rotator Cuff Tendonitis – This is a painful condition where the tendons that comprise the rotator cuff become inflamed and damaged, causing pain when making certain motions, depending on which tendons are inflamed. This condition is also sometimes called impingement syndrome. Physical therapy, cortisone injections, and ice/heat are the usual recommended healing measures. If these methods do not improve your symptoms, surgical intervention may be required.
- Biceps Tendonitis – Inflammation of the upper biceps tendon is called biceps tendonitis. It is considered an overuse injury and is commonly associated with repeated overhand movements in sports such as baseball, swimming, tennis, and golf. The shoulder pain associated with biceps tendonitis tends to be felt at the front of the shoulder. Arm weakness is another common symptom of biceps tendonitis when it affects the shoulder.
- Shoulder Labrum SLAP Tear – The labrum is cartilage that lines the “socket” of the shoulder joint and helps to hold the “ball” of the upper arm in place at the shoulder. This cartilage can be damaged by trauma such as a fall (especially if falling onto an outstretched arm) or by repetitive overhead arm movements. Symptoms of a SLAP tear may include pain when lifting objects, shoulder joint instability, and a grinding or popping sensation.
- Dislocated Shoulder – A dislocated shoulder is very painful and requires immediate medical attention. Only experienced medical professionals should attempt to reset a dislocated shoulder. Failure to do so properly may damage nearby nerves or other structures in the shoulder. Most shoulder dislocations happen when the arm is forcibly pressed upwards and outwards from the joint. The blow causes the bones of the joint to pop out of alignment, which will cause pain and an obvious deformity at the joint. Symptoms are relieved when the joint is properly reset. Those who have suffered a dislocated shoulder are at greater risk of a future dislocations – in which case, your orthopedic doctor may recommend treatment for shoulder instability.
- Frozen Shoulder – Frozen shoulder is just what it sounds like: when movement of the shoulder becomes significantly restricted, essentially “freezing” the joint’s ability to move. Also called adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder occurs when connective tissue at the shoulder (called the shoulder joint capsule) thickens and becomes stiff. The shoulder pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder may come on gradually, worsen, and then resolve within a few years. However, many people find relief with conservative therapies such as physical therapy and medicated injections, which can also allow you to more quickly regain shoulder mobility.
Of all the joints in the body, the shoulder allows the greatest range of motion, making it particularly susceptible to injury due to overuse.
There are many problems that can affect the shoulder. If you find that shoulder pain is a regular occurrence in your life, it may be time to have a medical professional take a look. The orthopedic doctors at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder can help. Call (410) 296-6232 or request your appointment now.
