Understanding Shoulder Pain: Causes and Solutions

Your shoulder is one of the most complex and mobile joints in your body—which is why it’s also one of the most vulnerable to pain and injury. Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or just someone dealing with discomfort while doing everyday tasks, shoulder pain can seriously interfere with your quality of life.

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder issues. Let’s take a closer look at what shoulder pain is, what causes it, and how it can be treated.

What Is Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain can be felt deep in the joint, across the top of the shoulder, or even radiating down the arm. It might come on suddenly after an injury or build up gradually over time. Depending on the cause, the pain may be dull and achy, sharp and shooting, or accompanied by stiffness, weakness, or reduced range of motion.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

The shoulder joint is made up of bones, tendons, muscles, and ligaments—all of which can be affected by wear and tear, trauma, or inflammation. Common causes of shoulder pain include:

• Rotator Cuff Injuries: These involve tears or inflammation in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. They can result from repetitive motion or acute trauma.

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition where the shoulder becomes stiff and painful, often developing gradually and limiting motion over time.

• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff get pinched during shoulder movements, causing pain and inflammation.

• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac) can lead to pain when moving the shoulder.

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and joint degeneration.

• Dislocations and Instability: When the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, it can lead to recurring instability and pain.

• Labral Tears: Damage to the cartilage that stabilizes the shoulder joint, often seen in athletes or from trauma.

How Is Shoulder Pain Treated?

The best treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause. At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, our team of fellowship-trained specialists provides personalized care options ranging from conservative therapies to advanced surgical solutions. Treatment options include:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Sometimes, simply giving the shoulder time to heal can reduce pain.

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder can improve function and prevent future injury.

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain and reduce swelling.

• Injections: Corticosteroid injections may provide relief for certain types of shoulder inflammation.

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: When conservative treatments aren’t enough, arthroscopic shoulder surgery may be needed to repair damaged tissues.

• Total Shoulder Replacement: In severe cases, especially with advanced arthritis, joint replacement may offer the best outcome.

When to See a Specialist

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain that doesn’t improve with rest, limits your movement, or interferes with your daily life, it’s time to see a specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage and restoring function.

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, our shoulder surgeons are highly experienced in treating both routine and complex shoulder issues. From diagnosis to rehabilitation, we offer comprehensive care to help you get back to doing what you love—pain-free.

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Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back. Visit https://www.posmc.com/specialties/shoulder-surgery/ to learn more or call to schedule your appointment with one of our expert orthopedic specialists.