The shoulder is the most versatile joint of the human body and it helps in the forward and backward movement of the arm. Shoulder joint provides mobility, however it is highly susceptible to injuries. Any tear, inflammation, fracture or dislocation in any of the shoulder bones, ligaments, tissues and tendons can result in pain in the joint.
Understanding Your Shoulder
Your shoulder joints can sometimes become susceptible to injuries due to how we use our shoulders, and how often we ask them to repeat the same motion. The likelihood for this to take place will increase if you have an active lifestyle, and particularly if you are involved in athletics. There are a number of different issues that can develop with your shoulders, and if you are feeling any pain, it can be difficult to know what specific problem has occurred. That can make it challenging when you are attempting to decide whether or not you should consult a physician.
For this reason, it is beneficial to understand more about your shoulder. Especially your rotator cuff, which can be the location for many shoulder injuries. Your shoulder joint is formed where your upper arm bone – which is also known as the humerus – fits into the shoulder blade – which is also referred to as the scapula. There are other critical bones that are located adjacent to this area including the acromion. This is found near the clavicle, which is also known as the collarbone. The coracoid is also nearby and (along with the acromion) functions as a bony area near the scapula.
Your rotator cuff is a collection of muscles and tendons that enclose your shoulder joint, while keeping the humerus inside your shoulder socket. The rotator cuff also plays a vital role in your ability to rotate and raise your arms. There is a cluster of four muscles contained within this area, and they each perform a critical role in how your shoulder functions properly, starting with the Supraspinatus, which keeps your humerus and upper arm stable, while also providing assistance in lifting your arm. This particular rotator cuff muscle is also where a large percentage of injuries in this area will occur.
The Infraspinatus is located directly behind the supraspinatus and is a primary muscle that helps you rotate and extend your shoulder. You also have the Subscapularis, which keeps your upper arm held to the bone to your shoulder blade and is important when you attempt to rotate your arm, lower it or straighten it. Finally, the Teres Minor is the smallest muscle among those in your rotator cuff, although it is vital when you want to rotate your arm away from your body.
Causes
- Shoulder Arthritis
- Poor Posture
- Bursitis
- Bone Spurs
- Shoulder
- Dislocation
- Shoulder Separation
- Collarbone Fracture
- Overuse Of Shoulder Muscles
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Pinched Nerve
- Frozen Shoulder
- Unstable Shoulder Joint
- Whiplash
- Tendinitis
- Impingement Sprains And Strains
- Torn Cartilage
- Tendon Rupture
- Repetitive
- Use or Injury to the Surrounding Muscles
Injuries of the Shoulder
Our frequent usage of the shoulder can eventually lead to injuries, and one of the potential issues that can arise is a frozen shoulder. This will create pain and stiffness, and your movement will become more limited if it intensifies. There are also several forms of arthritis that can cause shoulder issues including osteoarthritis, which is a frequent result of wear-and-tear that emerges as we age. Rheumatoid arthritis involves your immune system actually attacking your joints, which can take place in your shoulder joint. Sometimes you can also find yourself contending with gout, which also forms in the joints, and can cause both pain and inflammation.
Another common problem is tendinitis. This is an inflammation or irritation of the tendon that is attached to your bone. It can create pain in the area that is just outside your joint. Bursitis can also occur if the bursa becomes irritated. This is a small sac that is filled with fluid that protects your rotator cuff, and any irritation that may occur is most often due to repetitive motion. If you do encounter tendinitis or bursitis, these issues can improve through simple rest, ice, heat and pain relievers such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Unfortunately, there are other issues that can develop with your shoulder that will involve an entirely different path toward good health. Sometimes an impingement might develop if one of your tendons begins to swell and becomes pinched by the top of your shoulder joint. This is often caused by extensive use of the shoulder, and older adults may also develop an impingement due to wear and tear that accumulates over the years.
You can also experience a labral tear if you quickly lift something above your head. An accident or overuse can also cause a tear in the labrum, which is an area of cartilage that is adjacent to the humerus. Most labral tears heal without requiring surgery.
A common injury to the shoulder that creates concern for many people is an actual rotator cuff tear, which involves a torn area within the tendons or muscles near the humerus. Rotator cuff tears can emerge because of an injury that suddenly occurred, or can take place as a result of long-term use. Some rotator cuff tears are partial, while others involve a complete tear that progresses beyond the tendon and separates it from the bone.
If the problem that you are experiencing with your shoulder is due to an injury to your rotator cuff, a primary symptom will be the pain that you are feeling. This will become more intense when you attempt to raise your arm, and the discomfort is likely to increase if you do not address the situation. You will also notice the restrictions that occur in your movement and your strength.
Symptoms
- Numbness and tingling sensation in the shoulder
- Visible deformity and discoloration
- Swelling Muscle weakness and stiffness
- Pain and clicking sound while moving the arm
- Feeling of popping or grinding
- Inability to move the arm
When to Consult With a Doctor
If you are experiencing pain or having difficulty making movements that did not present a problem previously, that will understandably create concern. Since there are a number of possibilities regarding why this is taking place, it is appropriate to consult with a physician if you find yourself in this situation.
Diagnosis
To diagnose the underlying cause of shoulder pain, the orthopedic doctor will physically examine the joint and inquire about the patient’s medical history. He may also recommend certain imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans to determine the extent of the injury or the possibility of a fracture.
Treatment
Medications: The orthopedic doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
Injections: If the pain is acute and persistent, the patient may find relief with an injection. This is particularly helpful if the shoulder pain is due to Arthritis.
Heat Or Ice Packs: Pain to the shoulder due to sport injuries can be relieved with the help of heat or ice packs. Applying them on the affected area helps to relieve compression from the nerves and reduces swelling.
Sling Or Braces: These can be worn to provide support and stability to the shoulder. It can help to relax the muscles and allow them to heal.
Physical Therapy: Once the swelling and tenderness has subsided, the patient may need to undergo physical therapy sessions for complete recovery. The stretching and strengthening exercises help to restore the normal range of motion of the shoulder.
Surgery: It is usually recommended only if shoulder pain is caused due to some underlying nerve problems.
For comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of shoulder pain you can visit OrthoTexas, Plano, TX. To schedule an appointment, you can call at (972) 492-1334 or visit us at 4031 West Plano Parkway Suite 100, Plano, TX 75093.