Shoulder pain can stem from various causes, including injuries, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding the cause and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial for effective management and recovery. Here’s an overview of common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for shoulder pain.

Common Causes Of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can be attributed to a variety of causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. One of the most frequent causes is rotator cuff problems, such as tendinitis or tears, which often result from overuse or sudden trauma. 

Bursitis, the inflammation of the bursa sacs that cushion the shoulder, is another common issue, typically arising from repetitive movements or prolonged pressure. Impingement syndrome occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are compressed during shoulder movements, leading to pain and limited mobility. 

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by stiffness and pain, often following an injury or surgery, though the exact cause is sometimes unclear. Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can also affect the shoulder, causing inflammation and pain due to cartilage breakdown or autoimmune responses.

Fractures of the shoulder bones, such as the clavicle or humerus, usually result from trauma like falls or accidents, while dislocations occur when the head of the humerus is forced out of the shoulder socket. Labral tears, which involve the cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket, can result from acute injury or repetitive motions. 

Shoulder instability, where the joint is excessively loose, may be due to previous dislocations, injury, or genetic factors. Muscle strains or sprains from overstretching or tearing muscles or ligaments in the shoulder are common, often due to sudden movements or heavy lifting. 

Nerve compression conditions, such as thoracic outlet syndrome, where nerves or blood vessels are compressed between the collarbone and first rib, can lead to shoulder pain and other symptoms. Poor posture, particularly while sitting or working at a computer, can cause muscle imbalances and chronic shoulder pain over time. 

Additionally, shoulder pain can sometimes be referred pain from other parts of the body, such as the neck, upper back, or even the heart, where it may signal a cardiovascular issue like a heart attack.

Symptoms Of Various Types Of Shoulder Pain

Below are the symptoms of shoulder pain:

• Pain: Can be sharp, dull, or aching and may worsen with movement.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the shoulder.
• Weakness: Reduced strength in the shoulder.
• Swelling: Inflammation and swelling around the shoulder.
• Stiffness: Difficulty in moving the shoulder freely.

Diagnosis When Shoulder Pain Is Present

When you are experiencing shoulder pain, there are a few things medical professionals may do to get a diagnosis. Here are a few ways shoulder pain is diagnosed:

• Physical Examination: Assessment of shoulder movement, strength, and pain.
• Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the structures of the shoulder.
• Medical History: Understanding past injuries, activities, and symptoms.

Treatment Options For Shoulder Pain

There are many different treatment options for shoulder pain. Here are seven options that may be used independently or in conjunction with one another. 

1) Rest And Activity Modification

Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.

2) Ice And Heat Therapy

Ice packs to reduce inflammation, and heat packs to relax muscles.

3) Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Prescription medications for more severe pain or inflammation.

4) Physical Therapy

Exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Techniques to reduce pain and inflammation.

5) Chiropractic Care

Manual adjustments, soft tissue therapy cold laser and hammer/chisel therapy to improve shoulder function and alleviate pain.

6) Injections

Corticosteroid injections to temporarily reduce inflammation and pain.

7) Surgery

In cases of severe injury or when conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered, such as arthroscopy, tendon repair, or joint replacement.

Preventive Measures

Here are a few things you can do to prevent injury to your shoulders:

• Proper Technique: Using correct form during physical activities and sports.
• Strengthening Exercises: Regularly strengthening the shoulder muscles.
• Stretching: Maintaining flexibility through regular stretching.
• Ergonomics: Ensuring proper ergonomics at work and during daily activities to avoid strain.

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, it’s important to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and promote a quicker recovery.

Monitto Chiropractic Can Help With Your Rotator Cuff Injury

We at Monitto Chiropractic would love to help relieve discomfort from your shoulder pain. If you're experiencing any type of shoulder issue that could be shoulder impingement, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff injury, arm pain numbness, or tingling in your arm or hand, call our office at 828-252-7400 to set up an evaluation and see how we can help you.