Shoulder Pain Specialist

Why does my shoulder hurt?

Shoulder pain can come from any of the anatomical structures in the shoulder area. Common causes of shoulder pain include:

• Tendinitis
• Rotator cuff tears
• Bursitis
• Burners and stingers
• Sprains and strains
• Impingement syndrome
• Labral tears
• Fractures
• Arthritis

Depending on the location and severity of your pain, the team at Ortho One Jacksonville develops a personalized exam to determine the cause of your symptoms.

What types of activities and movements cause shoulder injuries?

Since the shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint with the largest range of motion of any joint in your body, it can be injured by many specific types of movements and activities. Common shoulder pain triggers include:

• Repetitive movements
• Overhead pressing motions
• Poor posture
• Sleeping on your shoulder
• Side-impact auto collisions
• Improper lifting techniques
• Lifting objects that are heavier than you’re used to
• Poor desk ergonomics

Depending on the types of daily activities you perform at work and home, you may be predisposed to certain shoulder injuries.

How is shoulder pain diagnosed?

To diagnose shoulder pain, the team begins with a consultation and physical exam. During your consultation, your provider asks about the location of your pain, if the pain extends into your neck, arm, or hand, and which activities worsen or improve your pain.

After your consultation, your provider examines your shoulder, first by measuring your range of motion, then by palpating the shoulder joint and its surrounding muscles. Your provider moves your shoulder into various positions to test your flexibility and joint integrity.

If X-rays or an MRI are needed, your provider refers you to an imaging facility in the area. Based on your consultation, exam, and any imaging performed, your provider diagnoses the cause of your pain and outlines a treatment strategy to relieve your pain and improve the function of your shoulder.

How is shoulder pain treated?

To treat shoulder pain, the Ortho One team first focuses on therapies to relieve pain, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, hot and cold therapy, and massage therapy. Once you’re feeling better, the team may refer you for physical therapy to regain strength and stability in your shoulder.

If you’ve experienced damage to your shoulder or have been diagnosed with arthritis, the team may also recommend prescription pain medications, joint injections, or regenerative medicine services. In severe cases, a joint replacement surgery may be the solution you want.

To determine what type of treatment is best for your shoulder pain, call Ortho One Jacksonville or schedule a visit online today.