Most of us feel shoulder pain from time to time and especially as we get older, but how do you know when it is time to see a doctor? Shoulder pain is extremely common and because the shoulder joint is very complex, there are quite a number of potential causes. Occasional shoulder pain usually heals and disappears all by itself, but there are a few common symptoms of shoulder pain that should be diagnosed and treated by a doctor, including the inability to carry objects or use your arm, shoulder pain at night, inability to raise your arm, swelling, or signs of infection. The three most common conditions associated with shoulder pain include:
- Rotator Cuff Injury. Pain and stiffness on the front and side area of the shoulder can indicate rotator cuff problems such as tendonitis, bursitis or a rotator cuff tear. These conditions are often caused by overuse of the shoulder joint by activities using your arms overhead.
- Frozen Shoulder. This condition, also known as adhesive capsulitis, happens when there is inflammation in the lining of the capsule of the ball socket joint. Discomfort is caused when the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens, causing progressive pain with motion and joint stiffness.
- Osteoarthritis. As we age, the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones deteriorates, leading to stiffness and pain. This type of pain is often felt as a deep ache in the back of the shoulder and over time, causes an inability to reach behind your back.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain due to injury or overuse, or suspect that you may have a chronic condition, please give us a call at Advanced Chiropractic Center for diagnosis and treatment options.