Shoulder Pain
The shoulder is a highly complex joint that enables a wide range of arm movement. It plays a crucial role in most daily activities, supporting the upper torso and facilitating motions such as lifting, reaching, and rotation. Due to its frequent use and structural complexity, shoulder pain is a common complaint. If left untreated, it can worsen over time and significantly impact mobility and quality of life. If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, it’s important to seek evaluation and care promptly at South Miami Walk-In Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can result from overuse, underuse, or a single traumatic event. The most common causes typically fall into the following categories:
Tendon Inflammation
Often caused by repetitive motion or overuse, this leads to conditions such as tendinitis or bursitis. These inflammatory conditions cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the shoulder.Tendon Tears
These are often the result of acute trauma or chronic degeneration. Rotator cuff tendon tears are the most common and can range from partial to full-thickness tears, causing weakness, pain, and difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.Labral Tears
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that stabilizes the shoulder joint. Tears can occur from traumatic injury, such as a fall or dislocation, or from repetitive overhead motions common in athletes. Labral tears may cause a catching sensation, instability, or deep shoulder pain.
Arthritis
Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis lead to the breakdown of cartilage, causing joint pain and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that inflames the joint lining, while post-traumatic arthritis can develop after previous injuries or fractures.Instability
This occurs when the shoulder joint becomes loose or repeatedly dislocates due to ligament or labral damage. Chronic instability can lead to pain, weakness, and a feeling that the shoulder might “give way.”Fracture
Fractures typically result from trauma, such as a fall, direct impact, or accident. Commonly fractured bones include the clavicle (collarbone), proximal humerus, and scapula. Fractures cause acute pain, swelling, and impaired movement.
These conditions can cause symptoms such as pain, weakness, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and instability. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to restore function and prevent long-term damage.
Treatment Options at South Miami Walk-In Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
We offer personalized and comprehensive care for patients experiencing shoulder pain. Our skilled medical team uses in-house X-rays and ultrasound to assess the joint and can coordinate expedited MRI studies when necessary. This detailed diagnostic approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and allows us to design a targeted treatment plan that promotes long-term recovery and improved function.
1. Conservative Therapy
Conservative treatment aims to reduce stress on the affected shoulder and promote natural healing. This includes:
Modifying or limiting shoulder activity
Rest and application of ice
Physical therapy to enhance blood flow, muscle flexibility, and shoulder strength
2. Medications and Injections
To manage pain and inflammation, the following may be recommended:
Over the counter or prescription pain medications
Steroid injections in severe cases to reduce inflammation
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, which use a concentration of the patient’s own platelets to promote healing and tissue regeneration in injured or inflamed areas
All medications and injections should be administered under medical supervision, with follow-up evaluations to monitor effectiveness.
3. Surgical Intervention
While approximately 90% of patients experience significant improvement through conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary in cases where:
There is structural damage that cannot heal without intervention
Pain or instability persists despite therapy
In some cases, surgery is performed prior to initiating physical therapy to correct the underlying issue. We work closely with trusted orthopedic surgeons at the university-level and can assist in expediting surgical referrals when needed to ensure timely care.
