Home/ Shoulder Pain

Treatment for Shoulder Pain In Texas

Schedule An Appointment

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

  • Sports Injury : Sports injuries to the shoulder occur due to overuse, direct impact, or improper technique during physical activities. These injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, often resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
  • Osteoarthritis : Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage and bones in the shoulder, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is commonly caused by aging, injury, and repetitive stress on the shoulder joint.
  • Frozen Shoulder : Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, significantly limiting the range of motion. It can develop due to shoulder injuries, surgeries, prolonged immobilization, or certain medical conditions like diabetes.
  • Rotator Cuff Injury : Rotator cuff injuries involve damage to the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. They can result from overuse, acute injuries, or age-related degeneration, leading to pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.
  • Shoulder Bursitis : Shoulder bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues in the shoulder. It can be caused by repetitive movements, injury, or underlying conditions like arthritis, resulting in pain and swelling.
  • Shoulder Tendonitis : Shoulder tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder, often caused by overuse or repetitive movements. It leads to pain, tenderness, and difficulty moving the shoulder.
  • Biceps Tendonitis : Biceps tendonitis involves inflammation of the tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder, often due to repetitive overhead activities. Symptoms include pain in the front of the shoulder and weakness.
  • Acromio-Clavicular Osteoarthritis : Acromio-clavicular osteoarthritis is the degeneration of the joint between the acromion and clavicle. It can cause localized pain, swelling, and difficulty with overhead movements.
  • Shoulder Impingement : Shoulder impingement occurs when the shoulder tendons are compressed during movements, leading to pain and inflammation. It is often caused by repetitive overhead activities.
  • Shoulder Sprain or Strain : Shoulder sprains or strains result from overstretching or tearing the ligaments or muscles in the shoulder, typically due to sudden movements or trauma. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.



Diagnosing Shoulder Pain

Diagnosis of shoulder pain typically involves a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to evaluate the extent of the injury or condition. Healthcare providers may also conduct diagnostic injections to confirm the source of pain.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

    Interventional Therapies

  • Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids into the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and pain, providing relief for various shoulder conditions.
  • Viscosupplementation: Injections of hyaluronic acid to lubricate the joint and improve movement, particularly for osteoarthritis.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection: PRP therapy uses a concentration of a patient's own platelets to promote healing and reduce pain in injured or degenerated shoulder tissues.
  • Prolotherapy: Injections of a solution to stimulate healing and repair of damaged shoulder tissues, often used for ligament and tendon injuries.
  • Hydrodilatation: A procedure where sterile fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to expand the joint capsule and improve movement, often used for frozen shoulder.
  • Amniotic Injections: Amniotic injections utilize amniotic fluid or tissue to promote healing and reduce inflammation, providing relief for shoulder injuries and degenerative conditions.
  • Exosome Injections: Exosome injections deliver regenerative particles that can aid in the healing of damaged shoulder tissues, reducing pain and improving function.

    • Medications

  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shoulder conditions.
  • Prescription Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers may be prescribed for severe shoulder pain and inflammation.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Creams: Topical creams containing anti-inflammatory agents can be applied to the shoulder to reduce pain and swelling.

    • Physical Therapy

  • Exercise Programs: Tailored exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion for various shoulder conditions.
  • Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage and mobilization to relieve muscle tension, improve mobility, and reduce pain in the shoulder.

    • Alternative Treatments

  • Acupuncture: Insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing in the shoulder.
  • Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments and manipulations to improve alignment and reduce shoulder pain.
  • Massage Therapy: Techniques to reduce muscle tension, promote relaxation, and alleviate shoulder pain.
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENs) Unit: A device that uses electrical currents to stimulate nerves and reduce pain in the shoulder.
  • Braces: Supportive braces can help stabilize the shoulder joint, reducing pain and preventing further injury.
  • Ultrasound Therapy: Use of sound waves to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation in the shoulder.
  • Shockwave Therapy: A non-invasive treatment that uses shockwaves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in the shoulder.

Conclusion

Shoulder pain can be debilitating, but with the right approach, it can be effectively managed. Understanding the cause of your shoulder pain and working with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan can help you find relief and improve your quality of life. If you are struggling with persistent or severe shoulder pain, seek medical advice to explore your options for diagnosis and treatment.