Shoulder Pain That Just Won’t Go Away
Shoulder pain can affect us in different ways. From reaching to grab a coffee cup to getting dressed, shoulder pain can leave you feeling restricted and frustrated by many everyday movements. And while an estimated 22.3 million adults suffer from shoulder pain in the US, your personal experience matters.
When shoulder pain is persistent, you may be wondering when it’s time to get some help. While the causes can vary, our guide to shoulder pain can help you identify what you’re experiencing and whether treatment is necessary.
Common Causes of Persistent Shoulder Pain
Some of the main causes of lingering shoulder pain include:
Tendinitis and Bursitis
Activities that involve repeated lifting or overhead activity can leave tendons feeling irritated, as well as the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder. This can make reaching for things painful.
Rotator Cuff Tears
The tendons that help you lift and rotate your arms can tear due to injury or even gradual wear. You may find your shoulder weakened and experience pain when lifting objects.
Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder can be a chronic and painful condition. This is where the tissue surrounding the joint tightens, causing pain and increasingly restricted movement. Activities such as reaching behind your back can be difficult.
Arthritis
Changes to the cartilage in a joint can cause aches, stiffness and reduced mobility over time.
Many of these conditions provide the same symptoms, so it can be difficult to confirm the cause without a diagnosis.
When Should I Seek Help for Shoulder Pain?
Some soreness can be expected after exercise or an unfamiliar activity. The pain can be eased with some gentle movement and wrapped ice packs. You should avoid movements that could make the pain worse, but should try to keep it moving where it’s possible to do so.
You should notice steady improvement over a couple of weeks. If, however, the pain worsens or doesn’t go away, you should seek help. Ongoing weakness or pain, being unable to sleep or being injured in an accident or fall are good reasons to seek help from an orthopedic doctor in Austin, TX.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
Your orthopedic clinic in Fort Worth, TX, can help evaluate your shoulder. They’ll discuss symptoms and check your movement, and may carry out X-rays, ultrasounds or MRIs to help diagnose your condition.
Many shoulder problems can improve through physical therapy, adjustments to activities or medication. Surgery may be necessary to deal with some types of tear or advanced arthritis. This will depend on the recommendation of your orthopedic doctor.
Take the Next Step with Direct Orthopedic Care
If you’re looking for the best orthopedic doctor near Dallas, Texas, Direct Orthopedic Care could be just what you’re looking for. We have a team of experienced practitioners who will discuss your condition in detail and recommend a treatment plan based on your needs.
We’re open seven days a week, and with no appointment required, we’re a top choice for dealing with shoulder pain in Fort Worth, Austin and Dallas. Find your nearest location and get the help you need today.
