Chronic Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is a large, highly complex joint where the upper arm connects to the shoulder blade like a ball and socket. Combined with tendons, ligaments, and muscles, this joint allows a wide range of movement in the arm. Due to its nature, however, the shoulder is very prone to damage due to wear and tear caused by repetitive motion and traumatic injuries. Shoulder pain may be temporary, but it could also evolve into chronic, causing discomfort for long periods of time when untreated.

Causes of Shoulder Pain

While there is a variety of reasons why your shoulder may be hurting, most issues can be narrowed down to inflammation, tears, instability, or fractures. Shoulder fractures, which often involve the clavicle, shoulder blade, and upper arm, often lead to severe chronic pain. The swelling and bruising caused by the fracture can worsen if untreated, leading to further pain. These types of injuries require immediate medical attention to heal appropriately. Common causes of shoulder pain include:

Arthritis

Arthritis is the general term for the swelling of the joints and connective tissue of the body, causing tenderness and pain. The symptoms of arthritis may occur suddenly or over an extended period and worsen as we age.
Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs when bursae sacs swell, causing pain. Bursae are tiny sacs of fluid located all over the body that lubricate and cushion bones, tendons, and ligaments, preventing them from rubbing against one another.
Tendinitis

Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, a thick, fibrous cord that attaches bone to muscle. While inflammation can occur in any of the tendons in the body, it is more likely to develop in the knees, elbows, shoulders, and wrists.
Fractures

Shoulder fractures, which often involve the clavicle, shoulder blade, and upper arm, can lead to severe pain. The swelling and bruising caused by the fracture can worsen if untreated, leading to further pain. These types of injuries require immediate medical attention to heal appropriately.
Instability

Instability results from a shoulder dislocation or separation, which occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder blade socket. Once a dislocation takes place as the result of overuse or traumatic injuries, the ligaments become loosened, making the shoulder more prone to further, painful dislocations.

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Chronic Shoulder Pain Diagnosis

In order to correctly identify and diagnose the source of your shoulder pain, our physicians will conduct a series of examinations during your visit. The first step is to perform a thorough physical exam and carefully evaluate your medical and family history. In addition, your doctor may suggest getting blood work, x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to best single out your condition.

Shoulder Pain Treatment & Relief

Our primary goal is to provide a personalized treatment plan that meets all of your needs. We offer a variety of minimally invasive procedures designed to help you manage your pain and regain control of your life. Our team of interventional pain specialists possesses decades of extensive experience in a wide range of conditions and is uniquely qualified to treat them. If you or anyone you know is currently suffering from shoulder pain, we highly encourage you to contact our team today.