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Shoulder Pain Q & A

What is shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort in your shoulder. The pain may range from mild to severe and occur only during movement or all the time. You may not realize how much you rely on your shoulder until you have this type of pain.

Your shoulder is a large and complex joint that forms the connection between three bones — humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The upper arm ball joint sits loosely in the scapula socket joint, allowing you to move your arm in all directions. 

The structure and function of your shoulder make it susceptible to injuries and conditions that cause pain. 

What are some common causes of shoulder pain?

You can develop shoulder pain from an acute injury, overuse, or a degenerative condition. Common causes of joint pain include:

  • Arthritis
  • Tendonitis
  • Bursitis
  • Dislocation
  • Rotator cuff tear
  • Impingement
  • Fractures

Problems involving the cervical spine (neck) may also cause shoulder pain, like a herniated disk or spinal stenosis. 

When should I see pain management for shoulder pain?

You should see the pain management specialists at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute if your shoulder pain fails to improve with at-home care or is severe, making it hard for you to carry out your daily routine.

During your pain management evaluation, your provider reviews your symptoms, including the type of pain you feel and the activities that make it worse. They also ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam, paying close attention to the movement of your shoulder.

They may request diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. 

What are my treatment options for shoulder pain?

Treatment for your shoulder pain depends on the cause. Your provider at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute spends time talking to you about your diagnosis and the types of treatments that can reduce pain and improve shoulder function.

Treatment options for shoulder pain may include:

  • Activity modification
  • Heat and cold therapy
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Bracing or splinting
  • Physical therapy
  • Pain injections

Your provider schedules regular follow-up visits to monitor your progress and adjust your plan. If pain management fails to improve your shoulder pain, they may refer you to a surgeon to discuss procedures to treat your condition.

Don’t let your shoulder pain keep you from doing what you love. Call The Neuroscience and Spine Institute or schedule an appointment online today.