Shoulder Pain

What should I know about shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort you feel in or around your shoulder. Your shoulder is a complex system made up of joints, muscles, tendons, cartilage, and bones, and the pain may come from any one of those components. 

Due to the complexity of the shoulder, it’s important to get an evaluation from the specialists at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group when you’re experiencing shoulder pain so you can get the most appropriate treatment to reduce your discomfort and prevent more serious complications. 

What causes shoulder pain?

Your shoulder pain may come from any number of causes. Some of the most common include:

Bursitis

The bursae are tiny fluid-filled sacs found in your joints that provide cushion. Repetitive movements or an injury may irritate your bursae, leading to inflammation, which is referred to as bursitis. 

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that refers to inflammation and pain in your joint. Arthritis can affect any joint in your body, including your shoulder joint.

Tendinitis

Your tendons are the tough, fibrous tissues that hold your muscles to your bones. Tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendon, which may develop from overuse or an injury. 

Rotator cuff tear

Your rotator cuff is the tendon responsible for keeping your shoulder in the socket joint. This tough tendon is susceptible to tears, referred to as rotator cuff tears. 

Impingement

If your shoulder blade presses on the soft tissue that makes up your shoulder, including the rotator cuff or bursae, then you may have what’s referred to as an impingement. 

Knowing the underlying cause of your shoulder pain helps your specialist at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group direct treatment.

What are the treatments for shoulder pain?

Treatment for shoulder pain depends on its underlying cause. Your specialist at Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group develops an individualized treatment plan based on the cause of your pain, your symptoms, and your overall health.

Treatment may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroids
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to your shoulder. You might also consider surgery if you fail to get relief from conservative pain management strategies.

Shoulder pain can develop from many causes. For a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan to help you get relief from your discomfort, contact Memorial Orthopaedic Surgical Group by phone or online today.