At Central Orthopedic Group, we’re no strangers to patients with shoulder pain. In fact, like hip pain, it’s one of the most common sports injuries. Athletes who use repetitive motions like swimmers, tennis players and weightlifters often experience shoulder pain. However, while it’s very common with athletes, it can also happen to anyone. Also, it can occur during even the most common activities.
A significant number of Long Islanders live with shoulder pain on a daily basis. However, most people have no idea when they should actually seek treatment for shoulder pain. In this post, we’ll discuss shoulder pain, common symptoms and when to seek out a Long Island orthopedist.
When to Seek Treatment for Shoulder Pain
So, what actually causes this kind of irksome shoulder pain? The vast amount of shoulder injuries result from problems with ligaments, tendons and muscles. In some cases, this pain is the result of some kind of accident or trauma.
Most orthopedists recommend seeking immediate attention if you’re experiencing shoulder pain plus difficulty breathing or a feeling of compression or tightness in your chest. In this case, you may be experiencing a heart attack. Therefore, you need immediate medical attention. Also, you should seek immediate medical attention if your shoulder pain was the result of an injury. Seek help right away if you have a joint that looks deformed, the inability to use the joint, intense pain, or rapid swelling.
Make an appointment with your Long Island orthopedist if you’re experiencing swelling, tenderness or warmth around the affected joint. If you feel any degree of pain, you shouldn’t wait to make an appointment.
For minor shoulder pain, you can treat it yourself with over-the-counter pain relievers. Also, you can rest and use ice to alleviate the discomfort. Obviously, you should do everything you can to avoid using your shoulder in a way that will aggravate the symptoms.
3 Possible Causes of Causes Shoulder Pain
1. Tendinitis
Repetitive motions are usually what causes shoulder tendinitis. Sometimes, a sudden and unexpected injury can lead to this issue. Shoulder tendinitis is uniquely common in athletes, especially those who might use incorrect form. This will place extra stress on the shoulder’s tendons, ligaments and tissue. Even common summertime activities can cause tendinitis.
2. Bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is, essentially, the inflammation of small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion and protect muscles, bones and tendons. Bursitis occurs most often in the shoulder area, since there are so many joints that often perform repetitive motions. Bursitis causes stiffness and swelling plus a significant ache in the shoulder area. Usually, it’s very irritating when applying and degree of pressure to the area or moving it. In most cases, patients can counteract bursitis with rest and careful protection of the joint. If the pain continues, make an appointment with a sports medicine specialist in order to come up with a treatment plan.
These injuries are incredibly common. Usually, rotator cuff tears occur in middle-aged people or anyone with a body-taxing job that requires repetitive motions. Also, tears can happen in the aftermath of a sudden accident or injury. Most orthopedic patients describe rotator cuff injuries as a dull, deep aching feeling that gets worse if you sleep on the shoulder. A tear can make everyday, common activities difficult, especially if they involve lifting your arms above your head, like golf, or reaching behind you. A rotator cuff tear can also make your arm feel extremely weak.
Conclusion – Central Orthopedic Group
For shoulder pain or any kind of sports injury, at Central Orthopedic Group our team of Long Island orthopedists are prepared to diagnose and develop a treatment plan to get you back on your feet in no time. For more information, contact us today!