Call Your Orthopedist to Treat Shoulder Pain Promptly

Are you experiencing shoulder pain when you lift your arm over your head? It is wise to call an orthopedist about shoulder problems. Shoulder pain could indicate tendonitis, arthritis, a rotator cuff tear or shoulder instability.

As you get older, you are more likely to develop shoulder discomfort. Your pain may build gradually or come on without warning, and you may not be able to connect your pain to any specific injury or incident.

Initial treatment options for pain management

You may get some relief from adjusting your activities and doing shoulder stretches if you have mild pain. If the pain worsens or does not subside after a few weeks, you should call an orthopedist.

Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may take an X-ray to see what is causing your shoulder problem. In some instances, you may need an MRI as well.

After looking at your results, your orthopedist will develop a customized treatment plan to relieve your pain and help you recover. Some initial treatment options may include the following:

• Resting the affected shoulder or arm
• Icing the shoulder
• Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Modifying your activities to avoid further injury
• Doing physical therapy to strengthen the muscles of the shoulder and arm
• Undergoing steroid injections

If you are still experiencing discomfort, your doctor may suggest surgery. Our surgery centers offer many procedures and treatments, from a shoulder conditioning and recovery program to injection therapy for the shoulder or elbow or shoulder surgery.

One of the most common causes of pain is a rotator cuff tear. If an MRI reveals a rotator cuff tear, you may have to have surgery. In most cases, surgery is outpatient and you can go home the same day. A surgeon will use a tiny camera and tools through a small incision and will reattach the torn rotator cuff to the bone.

Find an orthopedist near you

Whatever the cause of your shoulder pain, an orthopedist can help you manage your pain and prevent further damage. Call one of our orthopedic centers and make an appointment so you can resume your activities and independence.