Shoulder

What is shoulder pain?

Your shoulder is a complex and highly moveable joint that consists of three bones: your upper arm bone (humerus), shoulder blade, and collarbone. The round head of your humerus fits into a hollow socket in your shoulder blade (glenoid). A ring of tissue called the labrum surrounds the glenoid to hold your arm bone in place.

A group of tendons called the rotator cuff surrounds the head of your humerus and attaches it to your shoulder blade. The rotator cuff also helps you lift and move your arm.

Damage or injury to any one of these structures can lead to shoulder pain. If you experience shoulder pain that doesn’t go away after home treatments like rest and ice, the team at Orthopaedic Associates can help.

What causes shoulder pain?

Orthopaedic Associates treats many causes of shoulder pain. Some of the most common conditions that cause shoulder pain include:

• Arthritis, including osteoarthritis
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Shoulder dislocation and instability
• Rotator cuff tendinitis
• Rotator cuff tears
• Biceps tendon tears
• Labral tears
• Bursitis

In addition to shoulder pain, these conditions may limit your range of motion. Reduced shoulder mobility can interfere with your ability to perform daily tasks like lifting your arm to brush your hair.

How is shoulder pain diagnosed and treated?

First, the team at Orthopaedic Associates carefully examines your shoulder and reviews your medical history. They ask you to describe your shoulder pain and any other symptoms you may have, such as clicking or popping. They also ask if your shoulder pain worsens or improves with specific activities. 

They may also take tests, like an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to evaluate the bones and soft tissues of your shoulder joint. 

Then, the team creates an individualized treatment plan for your particular condition. Depending on the underlying cause of your shoulder pain, treatment may include:

• Activity modification
• Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
• On-site physical therapy 

If your condition is severe or doesn’t get better with conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. The team at Orthopaedic Associates includes highly trained orthopedic surgeons who can perform various procedures, including shoulder joint replacement and minimally invasive arthroscopy.

To find relief from shoulder pain, call Orthopaedic Associates or book an appointment online today.