There are a number of injuries and disorders that can affect the shoulder resulting in pain and limited function. If you have a shoulder problem that is causing you pain or preventing you from carrying out your normal day-to-day activities, then it may be time to visit an orthopedic doctor.
The three main bones which make up the shoulder joint are the humerus (upper arm bone), the shoulder blade (scapula), and the clavicle (collarbone). The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that provide stability and allow movement for the shoulder.
Because the humerus fits relatively loosely in the shallow socket within the shoulder joint, it can make the shoulder vulnerable to a number of conditions and injuries leading to pain, weakness, instability, and reduced function. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you would want to see an orthopedist for shoulder pain treatment.
When Should I See a Shoulder Doctor?
If you have had any of the following symptoms, seek expert medical advice in order to achieve relief from your shoulder pain:
- Persistent shoulder pain that has lasted for longer than a few weeks or cannot be relieved by home treatments, such as over-the-counter pain medication or hot/cold therapy
- Difficulty sleeping due to pain or discomfort of the affected shoulder
- Difficulty or pain when attempting to reach backwards, to raise your arm over your head, or to reach across your body
- A snapping, clicking, or popping sound in the shoulder, particularly when lifting or throwing
- A previous dislocation of the shoulder (which can make the shoulder unstable and prone to reinjury)
- An apparent abnormality or deformity of the shoulder or upper arm
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Three of the main reasons why patients visit an orthopedic doctor to treat shoulder pain are the following:
Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear is a common source of shoulder pain and reduced function. The risk of suffering from a torn rotator cuff increases with age, because the aging process can cause the tendons and muscles that comprise the rotator cuff to degenerate and weaken.
Rotator cuff tears can result from overuse injuries or sudden shoulder injuries, such as from constant typing at work, playing tennis, playing golf, or suffering a fall.
Arthritis
Shoulder pain can result from arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis – which is the most common type of arthritis and can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joint. Age, general wear and tear, or a shoulder injury can increase your chance of developing arthritis, because the pain ensues from bone-on-bone rubbing due to a lack of protective cartilage in the shoulder.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
This painful condition occurs when the tendons in the shoulder are irritated, inflamed, or degenerated. Shoulder impingement syndrome usually results from repetitive overhead motions or structural abnormalities in the shoulder.
Shoulder Specialists in Westlake and Avon, Ohio
If you are in the Greater Cleveland area and you are experiencing shoulder pain, speak to the medical specialists at Orthopaedic Associates. We have two convenient locations in Cuyahoga and Lorain counties.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (440) 892-1440 or (866) 362-7624 or fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!