What are the Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain?

What are the Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain may be confined to one area or radiate to areas around the shoulder or down the arm. The article lists the treatment modalities for the condition.

As one of the most mobile joints, the shoulder is highly susceptible to injury. Shoulder pain refers to pain that arises from the shoulder joint itself or from any of the many surrounding muscles, ligaments or tendons. Pain in this area can significantly affect day-to-day activities and limit range of motion and function. If left untreated, shoulder pain can turn into a chronic problem. Reputable pain management and rehabilitation centers in Brooklyn, NYC, offer several effective nonsurgical treatment modalities to relieve shoulder pain and improve the flexibility of the joint.

Ranging from mild to severe, pain in the shoulder may be confined to one area or radiate to areas around the shoulder or down the arm. It can occur due to wear and tear, injury, trauma, strains, accidents, falls, repetitive joint movements, poor posture, degenerative conditions and other pathologies. Problems in another part of the body such as the neck, heart or lungs can also cause shoulder pain.

Signs and Symptoms Each shoulder condition has its own pattern of symptoms which help the physician in diagnosis. Typical symptoms include – Inability to carry/hold objects or use the arm Constant shoulder pain that lasts more than a day or two Inability to raise the arm Pain that occurs at night or while resting Signs of an infection, including fever, redness, warmth or swelling Swelling or bruising around the joint or arm Unusual twinges or aches in the shoulder area Nonsurgical Modalities for Managing Shoulder Pain Diagnosis of shoulder pain will begin with a detailed physical examination. A group of physicians comprising of physical therapists, orthopedic specialists, and other pain management doctors will check for tenderness and swelling in the shoulders. They will also assess your range of motion and joint stability. In addition, imaging tests such as MRI and X-ray will also be done. Based on the diagnosis, they will develop a customized shoulder pain treatment plan that may include one or a combination of the following nonsurgical modalities – ✓ Physical therapy – In reliable healthcare centers, trained physical therapists work with physicians to diagnose and treat the root cause of pain. Shoulder physical therapy programs include strengthening, stretching, aerobic and isometric exercises that help improve joint function, strength, and range of motion. ✓ TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – TENS involves application of low-voltage electrical current for pain relief. ✓ Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – RFA uses electrical current produced by a radio wave to heat up a small area of nerve tissue, which decreases pain signals from the area. ✓ Chiropractic care – Chiropractic treatment involves gentle manipulation of the joint and other treatments to reduce pain and improve function. ✓ Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Anti-inflammatory medications help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen not only provide temporary relief, but can also prevent further damage to the muscles and joint.

✓ Ice and heat application – Applying ice packs can reduce swelling and inflammation. Heat application involves using a heated gel pack/heating pad which helps relax tense muscles and soothe a stiff shoulder. ✓ Cortisone injections – Administration of cortisone injections can address inflammation. ✓ In most cases, patients achieve optimum pain relief with these nonsurgical treatment modalities. Surgery may be recommended in severe cases for recurring shoulder dislocations and some types of rotator cuff tears.

Maintaining proper balance between activities is important to manage shoulder pain. Remain active and carry out your normal activities, but never try to overdo it. Take adequate rest and do not indulge in strenuous activities like heavy objects or playing tennis. Try to avoid painful movements, especially those that hold your arm away from your body and above shoulder height.

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