Do you feel discomfort in your shoulder, or worse yet, a sharp stabbing pain? You’re not alone – millions of people suffer from shoulder pain, ranging from annoying to unbearable. There are various types of shoulder pain, from dull aches to sudden spasms, but all indicate that something could be wrong.
In today’s blog post, we will discuss five kinds of shoulder pains that don’t require waiting on hold with your physician – they need immediate attention from specialists on shoulder pain treatment in Spokane and elsewhere.
Rotator Cuff Injury
When muscles and tendons in the shoulder become torn or inflamed, it can lead to a rotator cuff injury. Common symptoms of this type of shoulder pain include difficulty raising your arms above your head, weakness in the shoulder and arm, pain when lying down and reaching out, a clicking sensation when using the shoulder, and occasional swelling.
Treating these injuries can range from physical therapy exercises to corticosteroid shots to surgical repairs, depending on the extent of the damage. If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain in Spokane, don’t ignore it; talk to your doctor today! They can thoroughly assess your condition and suggest appropriate treatment options that may help you reduce your discomfort.
Arthritis
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joint that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. While arthritis is common in smaller joints, like the hand, it can also affect larger joints, such as the shoulder. Symptoms like difficulty raising your arm, cold sensation in the joint area, and a grinding feeling while moving the joint are common signs of arthritis in the shoulder.
Treatment for arthritis may vary depending on the severity of symptoms. It can include lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly to improve joint mobility or taking medications that ease pain and swelling. Consulting a medical professional is highly advised when arthritis is present to get a personalized approach for your particular needs.
Dislocated Shoulder
A dislocated shoulder occurs when the head of the upper arm bone pops out of its joint socket. Risk factors include participating in sports activities, falls, and forceful trauma, which puts stress on the shoulder. Sufferers of a dislocated shoulder may experience intense localized pain, numbness, and tingling in the area; in some cases, they have difficulty moving their arm or hand.
It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible following the injury since delays can increase recovery time and lead to additional shoulder issues. Treatment typically includes pain medication, physical therapy, and possibly surgery, depending on the severity of the injury. Patients can minimize the risk of long-term functional issues by seeking prompt evaluation and treatment for a dislocated shoulder.
Bursitis
Bursitis is a prevalent cause of shoulder pain. It is an inflammatory condition when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions your bones, tendons, and muscles around your joints, becomes inflamed. Often caused by overuse or from excessive pressure on your joints, bursitis can be very painful, and it might feel like you have a sharp shooting pain in the affected area.
Specialists can treat bursitis through conventional treatments such as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy or with more natural methods like icing and stretching exercises to reduce pain and restore mobility. Whatever treatment plan you choose, talking to your doctor is highly encouraged as they can properly diagnose what is causing the pain and help determine the treatment type most effective for you.
Frozen Shoulder Syndrome
Frozen shoulder syndrome, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes the connective tissues of the shoulder to freeze and become extremely stiff and painful. It can affect individuals of any age but is more likely to occur in people ages 40-70. The exact cause of this condition is unknown; however, research has shown it may be connected to other illnesses like diabetes or a previous injury to the shoulder joint.
Treatment usually involves physical therapy and home exercises that help maintain the range of motion in the shoulder joint. Your doctor may also recommend stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medicines or anesthetics for your pain, and corticosteroid injections into your shoulder. Treatment typically takes a few months to relieve symptoms, but most people recover completely from frozen shoulders.
It’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible if you experience symptoms to get back on track with your lifestyle and activity level sooner rather than later.
All in all, shoulder pain is one of the most common physical discomfort people can experience and should never be ignored. From rotator cuff injuries to arthritis to dislocations and bursitis, understanding the causes and treatment options for these various types of shoulder pain is essential in maintaining your long-term comfort and bodily health. Most importantly, seek medical advice from a physician when shoulder pain arises. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring a healthy body free from shoulder discomfort.