Shoulder pain is caused by several reasons, symptoms may differ according to the pain caused
However, if your shoulder pain arises from any injury and is getting worse day by day with lesser chances of improvement you should immediately consult your clinician
Common causes
The common causes of your chronic shoulder pain may include;
- A frozen shoulder
- A rotator cuff disorders
- An acromioclavicular joint disorder
- A rotator cuff tear
- Shoulder instability and you are under 30 years old
These chronic shoulder pain treatment can be conducted by an Orthopaedic surgeon or a Rheumatologist
Chronic shoulder pain treatment alternatives
The alternatives to chronic shoulder pain treatment can be
- Avoiding such activities that cause your shoulder pain worse
- Treating it with ice packs
- Using pain killers and anti inflammatory drugs
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
- Hydrodilitation
The above chronic shoulder pain treatments are discussed in detail with their risks and benefits below
Avoiding activities that increase shoulder pain
You can avoid overhead arm movements to avoid frozen shoulder this approach may lead to reduce chronic shoulder pain but may restrict your overall daily activities
Sling
A sling is a supportive bandage used in the case of shoulder injury or sprains in the upper shoulder its purpose is to hold the arm in a stable position with the shoulder, treating with a sling may restrict day to day activities
Pain killers and anti inflammatory drugs
Are easily available without prescription can relieve pain and swelling, but may be harmful if you are experiencing high blood pressure, asthma
Physical therapy
Physiotherapy includes techniques such as massage and physical exercises, it is very painful, especially in the case of frozen shoulder in the beginning, but improves flexibility and movement of the arm if performed under supervision can be more fruitful
Surgery for frozen shoulder
During this surgery scar tissue is removed from the shoulder to allow the joint to move freely. Surgery is the option if the pain does not last in six months. However the surgery brings high risks such as infections and recovery may take time, physical therapy is recommended after surgery.
Rotator cuff tears
This surgery can be helpful in treating damaged bones and torn tendons. Surgery can be a good option to prevent any shoulder bone dislocation. This surgery is done with a small incision and can be recovered with complete bed rest, risk of infections are involved and for several weeks wearing a sling is highly recommended