The shoulders are a part of the body that we use more than we realize, and you may not realize how much you rely on your shoulders until there is an issue with them. Many people experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives. Our shoulders are super flexible joints, which create a wide range of motion and the strength to lift heavy objects. However, this same flexibility also makes them prone to injury and discomfort. Let’s go over some common causes of shoulder pain and the most effective treatment options for managing chronic discomfort.
Understanding Shoulder Pain Causes
- Tendon Tears: Tendons can tear due to sudden injury or repeated stress.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction in the shoulder, can lead to significant pain.
- Bone Spurs: Abnormal bone growth can press on shoulder tissues, causing discomfort.
- Arthritis: As we age, arthritis may develop in the shoulder joint, leading to chronic pain and stiffness.
- Referred Pain: Sometimes shoulder pain is actually a sign of problems in other areas, like the neck or lungs.
If you’re experiencing chronic shoulder pain in Forney, TX (pain clinics in Forney, Rowlett, Greenville & Sherman) we would love to discuss treatment options with you.
Home Care for Shoulder Pain
For minor injuries or age-related wear and tear, home care can be an effective first step in managing shoulder pain. Consider the following tips:
- Rest: Avoid activities that strain your shoulder and give it time to heal.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can help alleviate pain.
- Activity Modification: Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive movements that could exacerbate the issue.
When to See a Pain Management Doctor
If your shoulder pain doesn’t go away, gets worse, or stops you from enjoying daily activities, it’s important to see a healthcare professional. At The Dallas Pain Institute, we provide a thorough approach to diagnosing and treating shoulder pain. Our specialists may suggest the following diagnostic and treatment options:
- Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to identify the root cause of your pain.
- Nerve Blocks: This is a specialized medical procedure designed to address pain in the shoulder that is associated with a single nerve
- Physical Therapy: Customized exercise programs can help strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve flexibility.
- Medications: In cases of severe pain, prescription medications or corticosteroid injections may be necessary.
- Surgery: For significant injuries or conditions that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be required.
Pain Clinics Forney, TX
Chronic shoulder pain can significantly impact your quality of life, but effective treatment options are available. Whether your pain results from an injury, arthritis, or another cause, The Dallas Pain Institute is here to help. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. We have convenient pain management clinics throughout North Dallas in Forney, Sherman, Rowlett and Greenville, TX. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief. We look forward to caring for you.