Shoulder Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Day-to-day activities like reaching for something on a high shelf or putting on a shirt can seem simple, but for those suffering from shoulder pain, these tasks can quickly become excruciating. Whether it’s neck pain, difficulty lifting even light objects, or chronic shoulder discomfort, pain in this crucial joint can interfere with daily life.

At Suburban Orthopaedics, our shoulder specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating shoulder pain to help you return to normal activities. Whether you’re experiencing pain, weakness, stiffness, instability, or numbness, we offer tailored treatments to address the root cause and alleviate your discomfort.

Common Shoulder Pain Causes

Shoulder pain can result from various conditions, each with its own unique causes and symptoms. Here are the most common:

• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs) between the muscles and bones in the shoulder, causing pain and swelling.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder, usually due to overuse or repetitive motion, leading to pain and swelling.
• Rotator Cuff Tear: A tear in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint, causing severe pain and weakness.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition where the shoulder’s connective tissue thickens and tightens, severely restricting movement and causing pain.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

Treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying condition and severity of the symptoms. For most shoulder pain cases, our shoulder specialists will recommend the following conservative treatment methods:

• Rest and Time: Allowing the shoulder to heal through rest is essential in managing pain and inflammation.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area helps reduce swelling and manage pain.
• Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Home Exercise Programs: Targeted exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve flexibility.
• Physical Therapy: A structured program led by a physical therapist to improve mobility and prevent further injury.

In some cases, more advanced treatments may be needed, such as corticosteroid injections or arthroscopic surgery.

Preventing Shoulder Pain

While some causes of shoulder pain are unavoidable, you can reduce the risk of injury by maintaining proper body mechanics and taking care of your shoulders. Here’s how different groups can prevent shoulder pain:

Office and Desk Workers

Common Causes: Prolonged sitting, poor posture, slouching, and repetitive activities like typing or talking on the phone can lead to shoulder fatigue.
Prevention Tips:

• Take breaks every 20 minutes to stretch and move.
• Adjust your workstation to encourage better posture (e.g., use a standing desk).
• Practice shoulder stretches to relieve tension and reduce fatigue.

Pro Tip: Stand for at least 1 minute every 20 minutes you sit. Stretch or walk around during your breaks.

Laborers and Manual Workers

Common Causes: Lifting heavy objects repeatedly, especially overhead, and poor posture.
Prevention Tips:

• Always lift with your knees, not your back, and focus on using your legs, not your shoulders.
• Break up large lifting tasks into smaller, more manageable segments.
• Use mechanical aids (e.g., dollies, hoists) when lifting heavy loads.

Pro Tip: Stand as close as possible to the object you’re lifting to minimize strain on your shoulder.

Throwing Athletes (e.g., Baseball Players)

Common Causes: Repetitive throwing, especially at high speeds, can stress the shoulder muscles and tendons.
Prevention Tips:

• Focus on proper conditioning, warm-up, and strength training for the upper back and core.
• Incorporate shoulder-specific exercises to increase strength and flexibility.

Pro Tip: Prioritize recovery just as much as training to give your shoulder muscles time to repair and recover between sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: When should I see a specialist for shoulder pain?
A: If you experience persistent aches, limited range of motion, or sharp, intense pain lasting more than two weeks, it’s time to seek medical advice. Ignoring or under-treating shoulder pain can increase the severity of the condition, potentially requiring more extensive treatment.

Q: Can shoulder pain heal on its own?
A: Some shoulder pain can improve with rest and conservative treatments like ice, medication, and physical therapy. However, more serious conditions like rotator cuff tears or frozen shoulder may require specialized care to prevent long-term damage.

Q: How do I know if I need surgery for my shoulder?
A: Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if a significant injury, like a rotator cuff tear, requires repair. Our specialists will evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of action.

Q: Can physical therapy help with shoulder pain?
A: Yes! Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and restore normal movement. It’s often part of a comprehensive treatment plan to reduce pain and prevent future injuries.

If you’re dealing with shoulder pain that is affecting your daily life, don’t wait to seek help. At Suburban Orthopaedics, our team of experts is here to diagnose, treat, and provide personalized solutions for your shoulder pain. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a pain-free life.