Find Relief from Shoulder Pain at Houston Physicians’ Hospital
According to research, over 40% of Americans suffer from chronic shoulder pain. As one of the most frequently used joints in the body, the shoulder allows for a wide range of essential and versatile motion.
Internal or external injuries that result in impairment not only limit a person’s mobility, but also cause mild to excruciating pain that worsens as the body shifts into certain positions.
The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint that comprises three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The rotator cuff enables the shoulder to move into a wide range of positions and angles.
Damaged tendons and bones near the rotator cuff are the most common cause of chronic shoulder pain. While the condition can afflict individuals of all ages, it is most common among individuals over the age of 60.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is generally caused by a combination of the following conditions and symptoms:
- Arthritis
- Tendon inflammation
- Joint inflammation
- Pinches nerve
- Fracture
- Dislocated shoulder
- Sprains
- Torn rotator cuff
- Swollen tendons
- Torn cartilage
- Sports injury
- External trauma caused by an accident
- Spinal cord injury
- Heart attack
Older people are more likely to show the painful symptoms of shoulder pain as they suffer from restricted mobility and throbbing aches that extend from the length of the arm through the upper body. If left untreated, chronic shoulder pain can cause a range of conditions and disorders.
Diagnosis for Shoulder Pain
The first step to getting effective treatment for shoulder pain is undergoing a thorough diagnosis by specialists and physicians. After examining your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms, your doctor will prescribe a set of tests that may include the following:
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Nerve conduction studies
- Arthrogram
- Arthroscopy
You will be asked about when you first noticed the pain, where it was location, and the severity of the pain. We recommend informing your doctor about additional symptoms and peculiarities with regard to your condition. Most patients feel the urge to generalize their symptoms, which can hinder an effective diagnosis. For more effective treatment, let your doctor know about any irregularities that deviate from general symptoms. Tell your doctor:
- If you’ve noticed odd swelling
- The specific area where you’re experiencing pain
- How severe your pain is (sharp on dull)
- If you’re experiencing any sleeplessness
- If any activities have been obstructed as a result of your pain
- If you’ve noticed any redness and warmth
- Of any actions that make the pain better and worse
Treatment Plan for Shoulder Pain at Houston Physicians’ Hospital
Once the comprehensive diagnosis has been completed, our specialists and physicians will determine the best course of treatment. We offer the following treatment plans for shoulder pain:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Medication (NSAIDs or corticosteroids)
- Arthroscopy
- Rotator cuff repair
- Acromioclavicular joint repair
- Shoulder replacement
You can find a orthopedic specialist who can diagnose and treat your shoulder pain to provide you with long-term relief. We leverage cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art software solutions, and years of medical expertise to effectively diagnose and treat shoulder pain.
Most of our patients have successfully resumed regular activities with no relapse post-treatment. By comprehensively assessing and examining each case, we offer an individualized treatment plan that addresses each patient’s concerns.
While most cases of shoulder pain are resolved with medication and/or physical therapy, severe conditions may require surgery. The orthopedic surgeons who practice at Houston Physicians’ Hospital can relieve chronic shoulder pain and help you get your mobility back. We’ve helped patients across Southeast Texas—including South Houston, Clear Lake, Webster, League City, and Galveston, as well as surrounding communities.
