Types of Injuries That Can Cause Shoulder Pain

As you get older, you may develop arthritis, which causes the bones in your shoulders to wear out and causes immense pain.  Home remedies like cold compressions and over-the-counter drugs may help relieve your pain temporarily. However, physical therapy and prescribed medication for Fredericksburg shoulder pain may also be necessary.

What causes shoulder pain?

Pain on your shoulder may be caused by injuries to the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. There are different types of shoulder injuries, including:

• Rotator cuff tear. The rotator cuff consists of four different muscles, which facilitate the movement and stability of the humerus. A partial or complete tear on the tendons may result in shoulder pain. You may experience this injury when you fall. Arthritis spurs may also wear out your shoulder bone.
• Adhesive Capsulitis. This is also referred to as a frozen shoulder, and it inhibits mobility within your shoulder. Underlying diseases such as diabetes and inflammatory arthritis may result in this condition.
• Shoulder dislocation. Extreme force may cause a separation between the humerus and shoulder blade. Your shoulder may dislocate when you hit a hard surface.
• Clavicle fracture. This type of shoulder injury occurs as a result of a broken collarbone. The collarbone is located right under your skin, and a fracture may protrude through the skin.
• Shoulder separation. Direct trauma to the shoulder may separate the clavicle joint and scapula. Your bones may bulge and form a bump on your shoulder.

Diagnosis for shoulder pain

A diagnosis is essential to help your doctor eliminate structural problems involving your neck and spine. Your doctor may ask you to move your arms and head in different directions to test your range of motion. Imaging tests provide images that help your specialist determine the cause of your shoulder pain. Examples include:

• X-ray. This type of test is primarily used in case of a fracture. Your doctor may also use this imaging test to determine to what degree osteoarthritis may be contributing to your problem.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan. It involves a combination of X-ray images to help your doctor get pictures of your shoulder from different angles.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) involves the use of radio waves to provide detailed and clear images of your shoulder. This test helps your doctor to establish areas of inflammation that were not detected using an X-ray.
• Electromyography. Your specialist may measure electrical activity in your muscles to check for any nerve problems.

Shoulder pain treatment

Your doctor may recommend a treatment method based on your diagnosis results and the severity of your pain. Types of treatment include:

• Cortisone shots. These are injections containing corticosteroid medication and a local anesthetic. Your doctor may use this injection on your shoulder to help relieve pain.
• Physical therapy. Your doctor, with the aid of a physical therapist, may apply pressure on your injured tissues to help relax your shoulder muscles.
• Stretching is another type of physical therapy designed to push your muscles until you regain mobility gently. 

There are several tips you may follow to avoid shoulder pain, for example:

• Avoid bending your head for long hours, especially when using the phone.
• Stretch and walk around.
• Roll your shoulders gently to increase muscle flexibility.

Shoulder pain is a source of discomfort and may distract you while engaging in your regular activities. Reserve a session with your doctor at Prime Regenerative and Pain Management for treatment to enjoy a pain-free life.

Jennifer Eonflux