Shoulder pain is caused by the shoulder joint, which comprises the collarbone, shoulder blade, humerus, and four muscle groups. The shoulder has a comprehensive range of motion. It is one of the biggest joints in the human body, making it one of the most sensitive to pain. Lawrenceville shoulder pain can range in intensity from minor to severe and might strike abruptly or develop gradually. Fractures, tissue inflammation or tears, ligament instability, and arthritis are a few potential reasons for shoulder discomfort. It may also result from illnesses that have nothing to do with the shoulder.
Diagnosis
Each shoulder condition has unusual symptoms that might aid your doctor or physiotherapist in diagnosing. Most illnesses make using or moving your shoulder uncomfortable, but some make it rigid. Since there are several possible causes of shoulder discomfort, your doctor will carefully evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and occasionally order imaging tests to determine the exact problem.
1. Physical exams: Your doctor will examine your shoulder thoroughly after reviewing your symptoms and medical background. They will push on several shoulder regions to check for discomfort or deformity. Additionally, a clinician will evaluate your arm power and shoulder range of motion. Your healthcare professional can also assess your neck or abdomen to rule out discomfort from sources other than your shoulder.
2. Imaging: An osteoarthritis diagnosis may be suggested by the presence of bone spurs or other minor issues seen on a shoulder X-ray. Conversely, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination can be performed to offer precise pictures of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that encircle the shoulder joint. For instance, a rotator cuff tear’s location, size, and age may all be determined via an MRI.
Can your sleeping posture cause shoulder pain?
Sleeping on your side, for instance, might place additional strain on your shoulder. This is because your shoulder ends up supporting a lot of the weight of your torso when you sleep on your side. Although your sleeping position may be a factor in your shoulder discomfort, it is not the sole one. Other medical issues might also make it painful to try to fall asleep. Furthermore, sleeping on an aching shoulder can worsen any of these symptoms.
Prevention suggestion
You may take certain precautions to maintain your shoulders strong, healthy, and injury-free. Here are a few tips:
- Take a break: Take regular rests if you do repeated activities as part of your profession or activity.
- If possible, avoid repeated motions: Lifting and throwing, for example, might strain your shoulder joint.
- For heavier items, use a dolly or wheelbarrow: This can help to alleviate the pressure on your shoulders caused by lifting or carrying a big object.
- Exercise: Maintaining the muscles around a joint strong can aid protect it and keep it from injury. Warm up and stretch thoroughly first.
It might be challenging to determine the “why” behind your shoulder ache, so try to be patient. Given the complexity of the shoulder’s anatomy, selecting the proper diagnosis is ultimately crucial to a full recovery. You may relax knowing that most individuals finally get relief from their shoulder discomfort. Call Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C., or book your consultation online to determine which treatment works best for your shoulder pain.
