The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body. It is prone to injury and pain because of its extensive range of motion. Almost everyone experiences shoulder pain at some point in their lives. Shoulder pain can vary depending on whether you have had an injury or if you have arthritis.
When playing an overhead sport or with raised arm elevation, it is not uncommon to experience mild discomfort. However, if you are experiencing constant shoulder pain, it is important to get it evaluated promptly. Pushing through the pain without seeking treatment can result in further injury.
Red flags for shoulder injuries include
- Pain at night that prevents you from sleeping
- Pain that does not improve after a few weeks of therapy
- Increasing stiffness and loss of mobility
- Instability in the shoulder
- Numbness in the arms and fingers
- Swelling of the shoulder joint
- The shoulder doesn't visibly look right
Common causes of shoulder pain include
- Frozen shoulder: Also called adhesive capsulitis, you may experience stiffness and pain in your shoulder. Symptoms appear slowly and then worsen over time.
- Rotator cuff injury: Rotator cuffs comprise tendons and muscles surrounding and stabilizing the shoulder joint. When these tendons are injured or torn, they can cause severe discomfort and require surgery.
- Arthritis: Arthritis is inflammation in the joint. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Inflammation is usually the cause of pain early on. During the later stages of arthritis, bone on bone is the primary cause of pain.
- Dislocation: The arm joint pops out of the shoulder socket in this situation. It is common for dislocations to cause pain, swelling, and inability to move. Surgery may be necessary depending on your medical history and the severity of your dislocation.
You don't have to suffer; we are here to help. Dr. DiPaolo and her team provide a variety of highly specialized surgical and nonsurgical treatments to treat your shoulder injuries.
Dr. Daneca DiPaolo is a highly-skilled, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist located in Grenada, Mississippi. She offers the newest orthopedic techniques, and she provides quality, compassionate, state-of-the-art orthopedic care.
