Shoulder pain is a common issue affecting people of all ages, from young athletes to older adults. Whether it results from an injury, overuse, or an underlying medical condition, persistent shoulder pain can interfere with daily activities and reduce mobility. In this blog, we will explore the common causes of shoulder pain, when you should seek medical help, and how physiotherapy for shoulder pain can provide relief.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
1. Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Injuries such as tears or inflammation in these tendons can cause persistent pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting the arm. These injuries often occur due to repetitive overhead motions, making athletes and laborers more prone to them.
2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, limiting movement over time. It typically develops due to prolonged immobility (e.g., after surgery or injury) and can take months or even years to resolve. Physiotherapy for shoulder pain is one of the most effective treatments for restoring mobility in frozen shoulder cases.
3. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
This occurs when the shoulder’s tendons get pinched between bones, leading to inflammation and pain, especially when raising the arm. Common in swimmers and tennis players, shoulder impingement can be managed through proper exercise and posture correction.
4. Arthritis in the Shoulder
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause shoulder pain due to cartilage wear and tear, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Arthritis-related shoulder pain often worsens over time and may require physiotherapy for shoulder pain to maintain joint function.
5. Dislocated or Separated Shoulder
A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone pops out of the socket, leading to severe pain and instability. A shoulder separation, on the other hand, occurs when ligaments connecting the collarbone and shoulder blade are torn. Both conditions require medical attention and rehabilitation.
6. Bursitis (Shoulder Inflammation)
Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. When they become inflamed due to excessive use or injury, it leads to shoulder bursitis, causing pain and tenderness, especially when moving the arm.
7. Tendonitis (Inflamed Shoulder Tendons)
Repetitive motions, especially in sports and manual labor, can lead to shoulder tendonitis, a condition marked by pain and stiffness in the shoulder tendons. Early treatment can prevent worsening and long-term damage.
When to See a Doctor for Shoulder Pain?
While mild shoulder pain may improve with rest and self-care, seeking medical help is necessary if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
- Shoulder weakness or inability to lift objects
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint
- Persistent stiffness or loss of mobility
- A visible deformity in the shoulder after an injury
A professional diagnosis can help identify the exact cause and recommend appropriate treatment, including physiotherapy for shoulder pain or advanced care options.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain
1. Physiotherapy for Shoulder Pain
One of the most effective non-surgical treatments for shoulder pain is physiotherapy. A physiotherapist can design exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Swasthya Saarthi offers expert physiotherapy sessions to help patients recover from various shoulder conditions.
2. Medication & Pain Management
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections may help manage inflammation and pain, especially in arthritis and bursitis cases.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining proper posture, avoiding repetitive strain, and using supportive braces can help prevent further injury.
4. Advanced Regenerative Treatments
For chronic cases, treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and regenerative orthopaedics offered at Swasthya Saarthi can provide relief by promoting natural healing.
5. Surgery (If Needed)
In severe cases like complete rotator cuff tears or dislocations, surgical intervention may be required. Swasthya Saarthi provides expert surgical care with post-operative rehabilitation for a smooth recovery.
Conclusion
Shoulder pain can impact daily activities and reduce quality of life if left untreated. Identifying the cause and seeking timely treatment, such as physiotherapy for shoulder pain, can prevent complications. Whether you need expert consultation, advanced diagnostics, or personalized rehabilitation, Swasthya Saarthi is your trusted partner in orthopaedic care.
Experiencing persistent shoulder pain? Contact Swasthya Saarthi today for expert diagnosis and treatment!
