Most people experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives. You may have pain when you lift your arm above your head or when moving it forward or backward. Not all shoulder pain requires medical treatment. If you experience long-lasting shoulder pain or pain accompanied by swelling, call Brian Murphy, DC, MS, and the chiropractic specialists at Stamford Spine in Stamford, Connecticut, or schedule an appointment online today.
book onlineWhat is shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain is pain or physical discomfort in the shoulder area, including muscles, tendons, ligaments supporting the joint or the joint itself. The shoulder joint is more movable than any other joint in the body, and therefore subject to overuse or injury leading to pain.
What causes shoulder pain?
Most shoulder pain comes from ligament, tendon, or muscle issues. The injuries may develop due to repetitive use of the joint and from ignoring the warning signs. Shoulder tendonitis is a common injury caused by repetitive motion.
Repetitive motions commonly cause shoulder bursitis. Shoulder bursitis is when the tiny fluid-filled sacs around the bones, tendons, and muscles become inflamed.
Some causes of shoulder pain are more sudden and come from an injury or accident. Rotator cuff tears cause shoulder pain and can either occur over time from repetitive overhead motions, playing sports, or from a sudden accident or injury.
Regardless of the reason for your shoulder pain, Stamford Spine has a team of experienced and compassionate health care specialists to treat and help reduce the pain.
When should I see a doctor about shoulder pain?
You can self-treat most mild shoulder pain without a visit to the doctor. Try over-the-counter pain relievers, resting, and ice to relieve discomfort. Avoid activities that increase shoulder pain for several days.
If your shoulder pain isn’t going away or seems to increase over time, you should schedule an appointment. If you experience swelling, warmth around the shoulder joint, redness, or tenderness, call Stamford Spine for an appointment or schedule an appointment online.
Shoulder pain accompanied by difficulty breathing or tightness in your chest may signal a heart attack. Seek immediate medical attention for shoulder pain with chest pain.
Also, get emergency medical care if your shoulder is injured in an accident, appears deformed, or you are not able to use the joint.
How is shoulder pain treated?
Stamford Spine uses a noninvasive, integrative medicine approach to treating shoulder pain that does not require surgery. Treatments may include one or more of the following:
- Massage therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Therapeutic exercise
The experienced team at Stamford Spine customizes a treatment plan for your shoulder pain. To start experiencing pain relief, call the practice or schedule an appointment online today.