When to See a Specialist for Shoulder Pain

When to See a Specialist for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can be a common discomfort experienced by people of all ages. Whether it's caused by an injury, overuse, or an underlying condition, shoulder pain can affect your day-to-day activities and reduce your quality of life. But how do you know when it’s time to see a specialist for shoulder pain?

Understanding Shoulder Pain

Your shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of motion, making it susceptible to injury and strain. From muscles and tendons to ligaments and bones, there are many parts of the shoulder that can be affected, leading to pain or limited mobility.

While some shoulder pain can resolve with rest, icing, and over-the-counter medications, there are specific instances where seeing a specialist is essential for diagnosis and treatment.

Pain That Persists Beyond a Few Days

If your shoulder pain lasts for more than a few days, it’s a sign that the issue may not be resolving on its own. Persistent pain could be caused by conditions like a rotator cuff injury, bursitis, or even arthritis, all of which require professional care to prevent further damage.

Limited Range of Motion

If you notice that your shoulder movement is restricted or painful when performing routine tasks like reaching overhead, lifting objects, or even getting dressed, it’s time to consult a specialist. A reduced range of motion could be due to conditions like frozen shoulder or a rotator cuff tear.

Swelling, Redness, or Warmth

Inflammation in the shoulder joint, indicated by swelling, redness, or warmth, could be a sign of an infection or inflammatory condition. These symptoms should be addressed immediately, as untreated infections or inflammation can cause long-term damage to your joint.

Weakness in the Shoulder or Arm

If you experience weakness in your shoulder or arm, especially if it occurs suddenly, it may indicate a serious injury, such as a torn tendon or muscle. Weakness could also result from nerve compression or damage. Specialists can evaluate the severity and recommend appropriate treatments.

Pain That Radiates to Other Parts of the Body

Shoulder pain that radiates down your arm, into your back, or up toward your neck can indicate a more severe condition, such as a pinched nerve, dislocated shoulder, or even referred pain from heart or lung issues. A specialist can help identify the root cause and provide targeted treatment.

Pain That Worsens at Night

Shoulder pain that disrupts your sleep or worsens at night is often a sign of an underlying issue, such as tendonitis or a rotator cuff injury. These conditions can progress over time without proper treatment, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can result from various conditions, including:

•          Rotator Cuff Tears: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears can occur from injury or overuse, leading to pain and weakness.

•          Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (small, fluid-filled sacs) in the shoulder can cause pain and limit movement.

•          Tendinitis: Overuse or injury can cause inflammation of the tendons, leading to pain and stiffness.

•          Frozen Shoulder: Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition causes the shoulder joint to become stiff and painful, limiting movement.

•          Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause shoulder pain due to the wear and tear of cartilage or joint inflammation.

How Simple Wellness Clinic Can Help

At Simple Wellness Clinic, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder conditions. Through comprehensive evaluations and advanced diagnostic tools, we can pinpoint the cause of your shoulder pain and develop a personalized treatment plan. Our treatments may include physical therapy or laser therapy, depending on the severity of your condition.

Don’t Let Shoulder Pain Hold You Back

Shoulder pain can significantly impact your ability to enjoy everyday activities, but it doesn’t have to. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to see a specialist. At Simple Wellness Clinic, we’re here to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free.

Schedule a consultation with Simple Wellness Clinic to start your journey toward shoulder pain relief. Visit our office in West Linn, Oregon, or call (503) 713-6177 to book an appointment today.