Shoulder pain can be a real game-changer, especially for athletes. Whether you’re pitching a baseball, lifting weights, or just trying to get through everyday activities, shoulder pain can slow you down.
Let’s discuss the common causes of shoulder pain and explore some effective treatments, including the different injection options.
Understanding Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can originate from problems within the shoulder joint itself or from issues affecting the surrounding soft tissues. Pain that originates from the shoulder joint typically exacerbates with arm or shoulder movement.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain in Athletes and Non-Athletes
Shoulder pain doesn’t discriminate; it affects both athletes and non-athletes alike. Here are some common causes:
- Arthritis: Affects the cartilage in joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness
- Bone Spurs: Bony projections that develop along the edges of bones
- Frozen Shoulder: Characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint
- Pinched Nerves: Nerves in the shoulder being compressed
- Tendonitis: Tendons become inflamed and irritated
- Torn Cartilage: Damage to the cartilage in the shoulder
- Impingement Syndrome: Tendons rubbing on the shoulder blade
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the shoulder
Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears are especially common among athletes. The rotator cuff is composed of four muscles and their tendons, which cover the upper end of the arm bone. These muscles and tendons help with overhead motions like pitching a baseball or serving in tennis. There may be a snap and sudden pain if caused by a traumatic injury. Other symptoms can include pain in the front part of your shoulder, along with stiffness, weakness, and a reduced range of movement.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Ignoring shoulder pain can lead to chronic issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Addressing the pain early can prevent it from becoming a long-term problem. A doctor can diagnose shoulder problems through a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI.
Non-Invasive Treatment Options
Rest and Ice: Resting your shoulder and applying ice can reduce inflammation and pain. It’s a simple first step that can make a big difference.
Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care: These therapies focus on reducing biomechanical stress and strengthening the muscles around the affected joint. These treatments can help reduce pain and restore strength, mobility, and function.
Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments
There are a range of advanced non-surgical treatment methods available to treat shoulder pain, including:
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting a concentration of your own platelets to accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints.
Prolozone Injections: Involve injecting ozone gas and homeopathic medications into the affected area to improve blood circulation and promote healing.
Shockwave Therapy: Uses a handheld device to deliver acoustic sound waves through the skin to stimulate healing and regeneration in injured tissues.
High-Intensity Laser Therapy: Uses laser light to penetrate deeply into muscles and joints to reduce pain and inflammation.
Regenerative Injection Therapy: Harnesses the body’s natural healing abilities through the use of stem cells. These are undifferentiated cells with the potential to transform into specialized cells to repair damaged tissues.
The Role of Surgery for Shoulder Pain
In some cases, surgery might be necessary if non-surgical methods fail to improve symptoms. Surgery can involve repairing torn tendons or other damaged structures in the shoulder. In these circumstances, your healthcare provider can organize a referral to a trusted surgeon when necessary.
Tips for Preventing Future Injuries
Shoulder injuries cannot always be avoided, but there are some things you can do to help prevent pain and injury:
- Warm-Up Properly: Always warm up properly before engaging in physical activity
- Strengthen Your Shoulder Muscles: Regular exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles can help prevent injuries
- Use Proper Technique: Whether you’re playing a sport or lifting weights, using the correct technique is key to avoiding shoulder injuries
- Rest When Needed: Don’t overuse your shoulder muscles. Take breaks and rest when necessary
With early diagnosis and the right treatment, you can get back to your activities pain-free.
Shoulder Pain Injections in Dallas, Texas
Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine in Dallas, Texas, specializes in a wide range of shoulder pain treatments for athletes and non-athletes alike. Our team of highly trained experts offers personalized care to help you get back in the game.
Our services include advanced chiropractic care, sports medicine, regenerative orthopedic treatments, and more. Whether you’re a professional sportsperson or someone experiencing shoulder pain from everyday activities, our comprehensive services are designed to meet your needs and help you achieve optimal health and performance.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (972) 503-7272 or use our Scheduling App. We look forward to serving you soon!
