You reach to put an item on the shelf and feel throbbing or sharp pain in your shoulder. Or maybe you are cleaning the kitchen counter and with each circular motion you feel a clicking sensation and ache in the shoulder joint. What could be causing this discomfort, and when is it time to visit the doctor?
A Providence orthopedic surgeon suggests the most common conditions are associated with aging, some from injury. These could include:
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Rotator cuff tear – there are traumatic tears that occur abruptly causing immediate pain, and degenerative tears that occur slowly over time with your body adapting to the changes.
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Shoulder arthritis – similar to other joints, shoulders can experience arthritis. There are a variety of causes to consider, from wear and tear to autoimmune disorders.
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Ligament tear – also referred to as a sprain from the ligament stretching too far or tearing.
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Impingement – this occurs when the top outer edge of your shoulder blade pinches your rotator cuff beneath it.
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Dislocation – an injury in which the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket.
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Bursitis – an inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint.
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Fracture – any broken bone in your shoulder joint.
The symptoms you experience with a shoulder injury or chronic condition can vary. After a personal injury, such as a slip and fall, you might experience acute pain and should seek medical help as soon as possible. If you’re an athlete who plays a throwing sport, such as baseball, your pain could progress gradually over years. You could experience:
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Numbness or tingling down your arm
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Pain that worsens with activity
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Inflammation or swelling
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Difficulty reaching above your head
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Limited range of motion
“Most types of shoulder injuries or chronic conditions can have similar initial symptoms, starting with pain,” said Dr. Justin Sherfey, an orthopedic surgeon at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center. “It can be difficult to determine exactly what might be causing your pain, based on symptoms alone. If your pain gradually increases and doesn’t subside with rest, it’s a good time to see a shoulder specialist.”
A physical exam, X-ray and possibly a CT scan or MRI will allow a physician to evaluate your range-of-motion limitations and provide options for your treatment plan.
The good news is that some of these conditions can heal utilizing non-surgical treatments, that might include:
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Stem cell therapy
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Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
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Corticosteroid injections
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Physical or occupational therapy
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Anti-inflammatory medications
At Providence, our goal is for you to return to enjoying your normal activities and your quality of life. To find an orthopedic shoulder specialist, visit our website at www.providence.org.
