Shoulder pain can arise from a variety of causes, including rotator cuff injuries, such as tears or tendinitis, which are common in individuals who engage in overhead activities. Another frequent cause is shoulder impingement, where the tendons are pinched between bones during movement.

Conditions like frozen shoulder, where the shoulder becomes stiff and inflamed, and arthritis, either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can also lead to pain, particularly with movement. Bursitis, tendonitis, and labral tears are other possible causes, all of which involve inflammation or injury to the tissues in or around the shoulder joint. Additionally, referred pain from the neck or spine, or even the heart, can cause discomfort in the shoulder.

Treatment for shoulder pain varies depending on the underlying cause. Resting the affected shoulder, applying ice to reduce swelling, or using heat to relax tense muscles can help alleviate symptoms. Physical therapy, including exercises to strengthen and stretch the shoulder muscles, can be beneficial for long-term recovery. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation.

Understanding Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of movement, making it susceptible to injuries and conditions that can cause pain. Symptoms of shoulder pain may include:

• Pain and tenderness: Often felt in the front, back, or sides of the shoulder
• Limited range of motion: Difficulty lifting your arm or reaching overhead
• Weakness: A feeling of instability or weakness in the shoulder
• Swelling and inflammation: Swelling around the joint, particularly after activity
• Clicking or popping sounds: Sensation of clicking or popping when moving the shoulder

For personalized treatment of shoulder pain, it’s important to consider the underlying cause of the issue.  Our therapies are designed to provide effective relief and help you regain mobility. Treatment options include:

• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stability in the shoulder, supporting healing and preventing future injury.
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to alleviate muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve shoulder joint mobility.
• Medication Management: Carefully prescribed medications to control pain and manage inflammation for effective, immediate relief.
• Interventional Pain Procedures: Minimally invasive options like cortisone injections, nerve blocks, or ultrasound-guided injections, targeting pain directly at its source.
• Posture and Ergonomic Education: Advice on adjustments to posture, workspaces, and daily habits that can reduce stress on the shoulder joint and prevent reinjury.

Causes of Shoulder pain

• Shoulder Impingement: Occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff get pinched between the bones of the shoulder, leading to pain, particularly with lifting or reaching overhead.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition where the shoulder capsule becomes stiff and inflamed, severely limiting movement and causing pain.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the shoulder joint can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in older adults.
• Shoulder Dislocation: A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball of the shoulder joint (humerus) comes out of the socket. This is a more serious injury, often accompanied by intense pain and instability.
• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or tendinitis of the rotator cuff muscles (which help stabilize the shoulder) are common causes of shoulder pain, especially in individuals who engage in overhead activities.
• Labral Tear: A tear in the cartilage (labrum) that helps stabilize the shoulder joint can cause pain, popping, or a feeling of instability in the shoulder.

Symptoms Of Shoulder pain

• Pain: Sharp or dull pain, especially with movement, reaching, or overhead activities.
• Stiffness: Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the shoulder.
• Swelling and Inflammation: Puffiness, warmth, and visible swelling around the joint.
• Weakness: Difficulty lifting or carrying objects.
• Bruising or Deformity: Visible bruising or an abnormal appearance, especially after injury.
• Fatigue: Muscle tiredness from overuse or poor posture.

Conclusion

Shoulder pain can stem from a wide range of causes, including injuries, overuse, arthritis, or underlying conditions like tendonitis or rotator cuff tears. Symptoms typically include pain, stiffness, weakness, and limited range of motion, which can impact daily activities. Early intervention through rest, physical therapy, and pain management can help alleviate discomfort and promote recovery.