Shoulder Pain Specialists

What causes shoulder pain?

Because the shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in your body, the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues are especially vulnerable to injuries and damage. 

One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is rotator cuff tendonitis, a type of rotator cuff injury that occurs when the tendons in your shoulder become irritated and inflamed. Like many causes of shoulder pain, rotator cuff tendonitis is caused by overuse and repetitive stress to your shoulder.  

Another common cause of shoulder pain is instability or shoulder dislocation. Shoulder dislocation typically occurs as a result of a sudden injury. Damage to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that surround your shoulder joint can also increase your risk of dislocation. When your shoulder joint pops out of its socket, it causes intense pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.  

Additional causes of shoulder pain include:

• Arthritis
• Broken collarbone
• Fractures
• Frozen shoulder
• Bursitis
• Shoulder impingement

Athletes and people who frequently perform heavy lifting or repeated overhead movements are at a higher risk of developing shoulder pain. In many cases, shoulder pain is temporary and goes away on its own. 

If your shoulder pain is severe or hasn’t improved with at-home care, the orthopedic specialists at Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC can help you determine the underlying cause and best treatment for quick and effective relief. 

How is shoulder pain diagnosed?

Your diagnosis begins with a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms. Your doctor also goes over your medical history to determine if there are any underlying factors like previous injuries that may be contributing to your condition. After the physical exam, they perform imaging tests to get a detailed look at your shoulder. 

Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC offers a number of on-site diagnostics like X-rays, MRIs and CT scans. Once you’ve been diagnosed, your doctor works with you to determine the best treatment for your condition. 

What treatments are available for shoulder pain?

In most cases, conservative methods effectively treat shoulder pain. Depending on your needs, your doctor may combine a number of nonsurgical treatments like:

• Physical therapy
• Immobilization (using a sling or splint)
• Steroid injections
• Shockwave therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Pain medication
• Regenerative medicine

If your condition is severe or doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatment, your doctor may recommend surgery. Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC offers a number of safe and effective surgical procedures including shoulder arthroscopy. 

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery your doctor uses to examine and treat problems with your shoulder joint through a series of small incisions. 

Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC is a leading provider of some of the most advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatments available. To find out which treatment is right for your shoulder pain, book an appointment by phone or online today.