When to See a Specialist About Shoulder Pain

If you have severe shoulder pain that does not improve with home care or keeps coming back, you may need to see a doctor or other healthcare provider. You may also need to see a provider if you have had a recent injury to your shoulder. When you suffer from shoulder injuries La Jolla, it is essential to rest the shoulder as much as possible; to prevent future injuries and reduce pain.

Common injuries may include:

• A rotator cuff tear: A rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm. A tear in any of these structures can cause pain.
• A dislocated shoulder: This happens when the head of your upper arm bone pops out of its socket. Dislocations are usually caused by falls, car accidents, or sporting injuries.
• A broken bone: A fall or other trauma can cause a break in any of the bones that make up your shoulder, including the collarbone, upper arm bone, or shoulder blade.
• Arthritis: This condition causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints. There are many types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis is the most common type affecting the shoulder.
• Bursitis: This condition causes inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the shoulder joint. Bursitis is often caused by repetitive arm motions, such as those involved in throwing a ball.

Your provider will inquire about your medical history. They will also do a physical exam. This will help them diagnose the cause of your shoulder pain. You may also need tests like x-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan.

When it comes to treatment, it will depend on the cause of your shoulder pain. Treatment options include rest, ice, heat, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections. You may require surgery if these interventions fail. 

You can prevent shoulder pain using good posture and stretching and strengthening exercises. It would help if you also avoided repetitive motions that stress your shoulder. If you play sports, use proper technique and wear the right equipment.

There are various reasons to see a shoulder specialist; these are some of them;

You have severe shoulder pain

With severe shoulder pain, it is best to see a specialist so they can help you with the pain and find out what is causing the pain. Your doctor is positioned to give you a correct diagnosis and set you on the right path to treatment and recovery. They might recommend physiotherapy or occupational therapy, or in some cases, surgery might be the best option.

You have had a recent injury to your shoulder

If you have recently (within the last few weeks) injured your shoulder, it is important to get it checked out by a specialist. They can tell if you have damaged any of the structures in your shoulder and whether you need any treatment to help it heal.

Your shoulder pain keeps coming back

If you are experiencing recurrent shoulder pain, it might be worth seeing a specialist to find out what is causing it. They will be able to investigate possible causes and help you manage the pain. Pain management might include physiotherapy, medication, or injections; you will need to discuss this with your specialist.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, visit Upper Extremity Specialists and see your specialist to discuss your shoulder pain. They will be able to help you find the cause of the pain and treat it accordingly.