Shoulder pain is a sensation of discomfort, ache, or soreness in the shoulder region, which includes the shoulder joint itself and the surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile joints in the human body, allowing a wide range of motion for various activities; but this mobility also makes it susceptible to injuries and pain.
The presentation of shoulder pain can vary depending on the underlying cause.
Common presentations of shoulder pain include:
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Pain with Movement
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Limited Range of Motion
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Pain at Rest
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Weakness
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Stiffness
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Clicking or Popping Sensation
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Swelling and Tenderness
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Radiating Pain
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Instability
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Muscle Spasms
The severity and duration of shoulder pain can also vary, ranging from short-term acute pain caused by an injury to chronic pain, resulting from conditions like arthritis or repetitive strain.
It is essential to pay attention to shoulder pain and seek medical evaluation if the pain persists, worsens, or significantly impacts your daily activities. Proper diagnosis and early treatment can help manage the underlying cause and improve the overall shoulder function and comfort.
Shoulder pain can arise from various factors, and the causes can be broadly classified into two categories: traumatic and non-traumatic.
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Traumatic causes:
- Injury: Falls, accidents, sports-related injuries, or direct blows to the shoulder can result in shoulder pain. Common injuries include fractures, dislocations, and strains.
- Rotator Cuff Tear: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. A tear in the rotator cuff can lead to pain and limited shoulder mobility.
- Labral Tear: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket. A tear in the labrum can cause pain, instability, and catching sensations.
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Separation: A separation or injury to the AC joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade, can cause pain and tenderness.
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Non-traumatic causes:
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- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff owing to overuse or repetitive activities.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between tendons and bones in the shoulder.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, limiting its range of motion.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint and cause pain.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons in the shoulder as a consequence of repetitive movements or overuse.
- Nerve Impingement: Compression or irritation of nerves in the shoulder region can lead to pain and weakness.
- Referred Pain: Pain from other areas, such as the neck, upper back, or chest, can radiate to the shoulder.
Additionally, certain lifestyle factors, such as
- Poor posture,
- Lack of exercise, and
- Prolonged desk work, can contribute to shoulder pain.
Furthermore, certain medical conditions, like
- Heart disease,
- Gallbladder disease, or
- Lung problems, may also cause shoulder pain that is perceived as coming from the shoulder area (referred pain).
On the event that you are experiencing persistent or severe shoulder pain, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
An interventional pain specialist has specialized training in diagnosing and treating various types of pain, including shoulder pain. Their approach typically involves a combination of non-surgical techniques to relieve pain and improve function. The treatment plan will depend on the specific cause and severity of the shoulder pain.
Here are some common interventions used by interventional pain specialists for different types of shoulder pains:
Medications:
Pain specialists may prescribe medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or analgesics to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroid Injections:
For inflammatory conditions like bursitis, tendinitis, or certain forms of arthritis, corticosteroid injections administered directly into the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues could be beneficial in reducing inflammation and providing pain relief.
Visco supplementation:
In some cases of osteoarthritis in the shoulder, hyaluronic acid injections may be used to improve joint lubrication and reduce pain.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections:
PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets from the patient’s own blood into the affected area, promoting tissue healing and reducing inflammation.
Trigger Point Injections:
Pain specialists may use trigger point injections to relieve muscle knots or trigger points that can contribute to shoulder pain.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):
RFA is a procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency waves to temporarily disrupt nerve conduction and reduce pain signals from certain nerves in the shoulder.
Joint Injections:
For certain types of arthritis or joint-related pain, pain specialists may inject medication directly into the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and pain.
Physical Therapy:
Interventional pain specialists may work closely with physical therapists to design a personalized rehabilitation program that includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve shoulder mobility and function.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
In certain cases, pain specialists may perform minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopic surgery to repair certain shoulder injuries or conditions.
It’s important to note that treatment approach will vary based on the individual’s diagnosis, medical history, and response to previous treatments. Interventional pain specialists take a comprehensive approach to pain management, aiming to address the root cause of the shoulder pain while improving the patient’s overall quality of life. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, it’s best to consult with us for a personalized treatment plan.
