Shoulder pain is a common ailment affecting people of varying ages and can significantly limit daily activities. Understanding the root causes of your shoulder pain is the first step towards effective treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications, reduce your pain, and improve your quality of life.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The Rotator Cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Injuries, including tendonitis, bursitis, and tears, are a frequent cause of shoulder pain and increase with age. This can occur due to overuse or acute trauma, leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain. Athletes and individuals who perform repetitive overhead motions are more susceptible to these injuries.
Osteoarthritis
OA, also known as 'wear and tear' arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects older adults. It results from the gradual wearing down of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Frozen Shoulder
Adhesive Capsulitis or Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The symptoms typically begin gradually, worsen over time, and then resolve, usually within a 1 to 3 year period. This condition commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more prevalent in women and individuals with certain medical conditions like diabetes.
Shoulder Impingement
Impingement of the shoulder occurs when the top of the shoulder blade puts pressure on the underlying soft tissues whenever the arm is raised away from the body. Over time, this can lead to bursitis or tendonitis, causing pain and limited movement.
Shoulder Instability
Instability of the shoulder happens when the head of the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. This can happen as a result of a sudden injury or from repetitive overuse. Shoulder dislocations, both partial (subluxation) and complete, can cause pain and unsteadiness in the shoulder.
Fractures
Fractures involving the shoulder, such as those of the collarbone (clavicle), humerus (upper arm bone), and scapula (shoulder blade), can cause severe pain. These fractures typically result from a hard fall, a direct blow to the shoulder, or an accident.
If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, reach out to Dr Ram Aribindi, Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon at Southland Orthopaedics Ltd, where you will receive a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation and an individualized treatment plan of care targeted to treat your shoulder pain.
Remember, pain is your body's way of signaling that something is wrong - don't ignore it
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