Sometimes, the weight on our shoulders can be literally unbearable. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, you’re not alone. In the early 2000s, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that approximately 7.5 million Americans visit a doctor each year for shoulder pain.
There are many different causes of shoulder pain, and it can be difficult to determine the source of your pain without consulting a medical professional. However, there are a few common questions about shoulder pain that can help you better understand your condition. Continue reading to know more.
What Does Shoulder Pain Entail?
The pain may be sharp or dull, as well as constant or intermittent. It may radiate down the arm or be localized to the shoulder itself. Shoulder pain can make it difficult to move the arm and may limit the range of motion, which can range from an inconvenience to a debilitating condition that changes one’s quality of life.
What Are Symptoms of Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can vary in intensity from a mild ache to severe, paralyzing pain. Those are the main indicators that you may need to have your shoulder pain checked by a professional. Other symptoms of shoulder pain may also include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand.
What Health Conditions Cause Shoulder Pain?
There are many potential reasons behind shoulder pain, including injuries, arthritis, and other health conditions. Injuries to the shoulder can include sprains, strains, and dislocations. Arthritis is commonly linked with shoulder pain, more in adults. Other health conditions that can cause shoulder pain include:
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries are a source of shoulder pain. These groups of tendons are typically attached from the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. Treatment may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
- Rotator Cuff Tears
A rotator cuff tear is a known cause of shoulder pain that can cause pain and weakness, occurring in the internal muscles of the shoulder. A tear can occur due to overuse. While small tears may require little treatment, large tears may require surgery to repair the tendon.
- Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
Rotator cuff tendonitis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the shoulder. This condition can occur with activities that involve using your arms overhead, like tennis, yoga, or painting a room. The pain is often worse at rest and improves with therapy.
- Rotator Cuff Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition that is caused by the inflammation of the bursae. These small, fluid-filled sacs are cushioned between the bones, tendons, and muscles around the joints. When these sacs become inflamed, they can result in considerable pain and swelling in the area.
- Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a certain condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and difficult to move. This can be extremely painful and limit your range of motion. Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain medication, and sometimes surgery.
- Shoulder Impingement SyndromeÂ
Shoulder impingement syndrome can result from occurrences where the rotator cuff muscles and tendons become irritated and inflamed. This condition can cause a high and constant level of pain and weakness in the shoulder.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is quite important to be aware of the three common questions about shoulder pain. By understanding the answers to such questions, you can be better prepared to manage your shoulder pain effectively.
Looking for medical services? At the Center for Arthritis & Osteoporosis, Dr. Adenwalla and her team adopt the finest treatment procedures and diagnostic modalities to manage disease states. Get in touch with us today!
