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Understanding Shoulder Pain: Orthopaedic Causes and Treatments

Understanding Shoulder Pain: Orthopaedic Causes and Treatments

Shoulder pain is a very common complaint that can affect people of all ages. It often limits daily activities and, if not treated promptly, can significantly impact quality of life.

At Panchsheel Orthopaedics & Physiotherapy, we treat patients with issues ranging from mild stiffness to severe shoulder pain. Many also experience difficulty with movement. If you are facing such problems, do not ignore them—seek treatment from an orthopaedist or physiotherapist as soon as possible.

Common Orthopaedic Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can result from various musculoskeletal problems. Therefore, before starting treatment, it is important to identify the underlying cause. Some of the most common orthopaedic causes include:

1. Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that stabilize the joint. Tearing or inflammation of these tendons can cause severe pain, especially when raising the arm.

2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder can cause stiffness in the shoulder, making it difficult to move your arm normally. It often develops gradually and can result from injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility.

3. Shoulder Arthritis

Degenerative changes in the shoulder joint, particularly osteoarthritis, can lead to chronic pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion.

4. Bursitis and Tendinitis

Inflammation of the bursa (bursitis) or the tendons (tendinitis) in the shoulder can cause pain and tenderness. The discomfort often worsens with repetitive activity and, if left untreated, may lead to complications.

5. Dislocation or Instability

Shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone comes out of its socket. If the ligaments weaken or are repeatedly injured, long-term instability of the shoulder can develop.

6. Fractures and Trauma

Falls or accidents can cause fractures of the collarbone, scapula, or upper arm, resulting in severe pain and difficulty moving the arm.

How Shoulder Pain is Diagnosed

At Panchsheel Orthopaedics & Physiotherapy, our approach combines clinical expertise with advanced imaging techniques to first identify the underlying cause of a patient’s condition and then begin treatment:

  • Physical Examination: To assess range of motion, strength, and joint stability.
  • X-rays and MRI: To detect bone injuries, cartilage damage, or soft tissue problems.
  • Ultrasound: Useful for identifying tendon tears and inflammation.

We believe that an accurate diagnosis is crucial for ensuring the right treatment plan, as different causes of shoulder pain require different approaches.

Shoulder Pain Treatments in India

If you want to treat shoulder pain, it is important to first undergo a thorough assessment of the underlying cause, severity, and lifestyle, followed by evidence-based treatment options:

1. Conservative Management

  • Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
  • Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers to reduce discomfort.
  • Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen the condition.

2. Conventional Treatment

  • Corticosteroid Injections: Help reduce inflammation in severe bursitis or tendinitis.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: An emerging treatment for tendon injuries that may promote healing.

3. Surgical Options

If simpler treatments don’t work, surgery might be needed:

  • Arthroscopic Repair: A minimally invasive procedure to repair a torn tendon or remove inflamed tissue.
  • Shoulder replacement: This is recommended when arthritis is severe or the joint is too damaged to be repaired.

4. Rehabilitation and Recovery

Physiotherapy after treatment is essential for restoring full shoulder function and preventing recurrence. Our team tailors the program to each patient, focusing on gradual strengthening, posture correction, and functional training.

Why Seek Expert Care

Shoulder pain may seem minor initially, but ignoring it can lead to stiffness, weakness, or even permanent loss of function. Consulting an experienced orthopaedist ensures an accurate diagnosis and access to the latest evidence-based treatments.

At Panchsheel Orthopaedics & Physiotherapy, every shoulder pain treatment plan is reviewed by Dr. Harshvardhan Hegde, who has over 38 years of experience in orthopaedics and spine care. Our goal is to provide reliable guidance and restore your shoulder health safely and effectively, so you can enjoy a healthy and active life.

Conclusion

Shoulder pain is not something to ignore. Early screening, an accurate diagnosis, and a personalized treatment plan can help you overcome it. Today, effective treatment for shoulder pain in India is available through physiotherapy, medications, or surgery, and expert care can provide timely relief.

If you are suffering from shoulder pain, consult our team at panchsheelorthophysio.com today to receive appropriate treatment.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

What is the best treatment for shoulder pain?

The best treatment for shoulder pain is to first identify the cause and then treat it. Mild pain can often be managed with physical therapy, exercise, and medication. For more severe issues, injections or surgery may be necessary. In such cases, it is important to consult an orthopaedic specialist.

What causes shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain is often caused by injury, rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, arthritis, bursitis, dislocation, or fractures. Overuse of the shoulder or poor posture can also contribute to discomfort.

Can internal organs cause shoulder pain?

Yes, shoulder pain can sometimes be linked to problems with internal organs such as the heart, lungs, or liver. It is common for a heart attack to cause pain in the left shoulder. If you experience such symptoms, stay alert and consult a doctor immediately.

Which diseases trigger shoulder pain?

Conditions such as frozen shoulder, rotator cuff tears, or early-stage arthritis may begin with shoulder pain before other symptoms appear.

How do I know if shoulder pain is serious?

Seek medical attention immediately if the pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by swelling, numbness, weakness, or chest discomfort. Never ignore such symptoms. If you have a chronic condition and your pain worsens, consult a doctor promptly.

 Which shoulder pain may indicate heart problems?

Pain in the left shoulder, often radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw, may indicate a heart condition. Immediate medical consultation is advised, especially if the pain is accompanied by chest tightness, sweating, or shortness of breath.

Can stress cause shoulder pain?

Yes, stress can lead to tension in the shoulder muscles, causing discomfort or stiffness and potentially worsening existing shoulder problems.

Published on:

Dr. Harshavardhan Hegde

Content by Panchsheel Orthopaedic & Physiotherapy Team

Reviewed by Dr. Harshavardhan Hegde

This content has been written by the Panchsheel Orthopaedic & Physiotherapy Team and reviewed by Dr. Harshavardhan Hegde, who has over 38 years of experience in orthopaedics and spine care, ensuring that all information is accurate, reliable, and up-to-date. Our team is committed to providing evidence-based guidance to help patients make informed decisions about their musculoskeletal health.