Advanced Bone & Joint

When to Seek Professional Help for Shoulder Pain: Warning Signs

Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, from minor injuries to more serious underlying issues. Knowing when to seek professional help for your shoulder pain can help you receive the appropriate treatment and prevent further damage.

Here are some warning signs to watch out for:

Sudden Onset of Intense Pain

If you experience sudden and intense pain in your shoulder, it may be a sign of a serious injury, such as a rotator cuff tear or a dislocated shoulder.

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience this type of pain.

Limited Range of Motion

Are you unable to move your shoulder normally or experience a limited range of motion? That may be a sign of a frozen shoulder or an injury to the shoulder joint. This can make it difficult to perform daily activities, such as reaching or lifting.

Swelling or Bruising

Swelling or bruising around the shoulder joint can indicate an injury such as a sprain or strain.

However, if the bruising or swelling is severe or comes with other symptoms, it may be a sign of a more serious condition such as a fracture.

Numbness or Tingling

Numbness or tingling in your shoulder, arm, or hand can indicate nerve damage or a pinched nerve. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

Chronic Pain

If you have been experiencing pain in your shoulder for an extended period of time, it may be a sign of an underlying condition.

Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for longer than 12 weeks.

Weakness or Instability

You may have a rotator cuff tear or another injury if you experience weakness or instability in your shoulder joint.

This can make it difficult to perform daily activities and may require surgery or other treatments.

Common Shoulder Injuries and Conditions

The shoulder is a complex joint that is susceptible to a variety of injuries and conditions. Here are some of the most common types of shoulder injuries and conditions:

1. Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that are attached to the shoulder blade and help stabilize the shoulder joint.

Rotator cuff tears can occur as a result of repetitive overhead motions or sudden trauma and may cause:

  • Pain
  • Weakness
  • Limited range of motion

2. Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is also called the adhesive capsulitis. It is a condition in which the joint in the shoulder becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to move the arm.

It typically develops gradually and can be caused by injury, surgery, or an underlying medical condition.

3. Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons and bones in the shoulder rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation.

This can be caused by repetitive overhead motions or an injury to the shoulder.

4. Dislocated Shoulder

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket. This can result from a sudden impact or fall and can cause:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Limited range of motion

5. Bursitis

Bursitis is a condition in which the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints become inflamed. This can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Common Treatment Options for Shoulder Conditions

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing shoulder pain or other symptoms.

They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend an appropriate course of action.

Here are some common treatment options:

  1. Rest and Ice: Rest and ice can help reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder. This is often the first line of treatment for minor shoulder injuries.
  2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve your range of motion and strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder joint.
  3. Medications: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder.
  4. Surgery: Surgery may be necessary for more severe shoulder injuries or conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or dislocated shoulders. The type of surgery will depend on the specific injury or condition.
  5. Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as improving posture or avoiding repetitive overhead motions can help prevent future shoulder injuries or conditions.

The treatment options for shoulder conditions will depend on the specific injury or condition, as well as the severity of the symptoms.

Shoulder Pain Treatment in St. Peters, O’Fallon, & Wentzville, MO

Shoulder pain can be a sign of a variety of conditions, from minor injuries to more serious underlying issues. If you experience any of these warning signs, it is important to seek professional help from a doctor or other healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and improve your quality of life. Remember to take the time to research your options and ask questions before making your decision.

You can rely on Advanced Bone & Joint, the best Missouri orthopedic clinic, if you need shoulder pain treatment. Our team of expert and compassionate orthopedic providers will make sure you receive nothing short of the best care. You may call us today at (636) 229-4222 for any questions or concerns. You can also schedule an appointment with the best orthopedic surgeon near you using our online request form.

We look forward to serving you!