Shoulder Pain Specialist

What is shoulder pain?

The shoulder is a complex joint that provides your arm with a wide range of motion. However, this mobility makes your shoulder particularly susceptible to injuries and problems that cause pain.

The team has extensive experience treating shoulder injuries, including joint reconstruction and arthritis, which may also affect the shoulder.

What causes shoulder pain?

The shoulder joint is where your upper arm bone (humerus) attaches to your shoulder blade beneath the collarbone (clavicle). A group of muscles and tendons called the rotator cuff holds your humerus in place and allows you to lift and rotate your arm.

Damage to any one of these structures can cause shoulder pain and instability. The most common shoulder problems include:

• Bursitis
• Biceps tendinitis
• Rotator cuff tendinitis
• Rotator cuff tears
• Shoulder impingement
• Biceps tendon tears
• Shoulder dislocations
• Arthritis off the shoulder
• Shoulder fractures

Some of these injuries occur suddenly, such as shoulder dislocations or fractures. Other conditions, such as arthritis, develop slowly and worsen over time.

How do you diagnose and treat shoulder pain?

First, your provider thoroughly reviews your medical history. They ask you to describe your symptoms and when the pain started.

They perform a physical exam to check for signs such as swelling, deformity, or weakness in your shoulder. If necessary, they may take tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to identify injuries in your shoulder joint.

Once they determine the underlying cause of your shoulder pain, your provider creates a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, treatment for shoulder pain may include:

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Medication to relieve pain
• Steroid injections

If your condition is severe or doesn’t improve with conservative treatment, they may recommend surgery. The team at Central Jersey Hand Surgery performs minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures as an alternative to open surgery whenever possible.

They may also perform shoulder arthroscopy to diagnose a problem that isn’t evident from the physical exam or imaging tests.

To find relief from shoulder pain, call Central Jersey Hand Surgery or book an appointment online today.