Treatment for Shoulder Pain - Common Shoulder Related Ailments

As a doctor specializing in the orthopedic medicine, I get to treat patients with a variety of diseases. The most common of these are the neck and shoulder related strains and sprains. It has become quite a common scene for students and job going people within the age group 15-30 complaining of a stinging neck ache. Poor posture while studying / working and irregular exercises have worsened their condition, and enhanced the number of chronic shoulder ache cases.

Commonly reported are cases of rotator cuff tear, frozen shoulder and shoulder dislocation. Apart from injury resulting from physical activity or a work-related injury, most of the cases of shoulder and neck related aches arise from improper posture and continuous use of laptops and mobile phones.

Frozen shoulder, medically termed as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness in the shoulder. Affecting women more than men, frozen shoulder can cause immense pain and discomfort in patients. The fluid that lubricates the shoulder socket doesn't do the job and the shoulder freezes out. Several factors put patients at high risk of developing frozen shoulder, such as diabetics, cardiac disease, hyperthyroidism and Parkinson's disease.

Frozen shoulder treatment involves non-surgical options like anti-inflammatory medicines, steroidal injections, physical therapy sessions, and surgery.

Shoulder dislocation, another commonly seen shoulder related ailment is a result of physical injury or vehicular accidents. The most mobile of the joints, shoulder is also the most easily dislocated one. Symptoms may range from swelling to numbness, bruising and even weakness. Dislocation can injure the ligaments and could damage nerves. Such conditions require an immediate shoulder dislocation surgery.  The shoulder dislocation surgery is followed by immobilization of the shoulder in a sling followed by complete rest for a minimum of 4 weeks. Various painkillers are prescribed to numb the pain.

Shoulder labrum tear is another type of shoulder related tear. It is basically a tear in the structure called labrum, and is characterized by pain and catching sensation. Shoulder labrum tear is difficult to be diagnosed, and patients are advised to make a note of their symptoms carefully. Generally this kind of tear makes it difficult to move a shoulder. Treatment will begin with pain medication and pills to control the inflammation. Cortisone may be given as a last resort if lighter painkillers are unsuccessful. Next several treatments to ease the pain with heat or ice is followed. Finally exercises to improve the shoulder mobility is taught to the patient. It is also advised to follow up the treatment with strengthening exercises.

Following the onset of any shoulder related injury, rest is very significant for the complete recovery. Things should be done at a slower pace and the shoulder must not be burdened. Continuous exercise must be a part, even after complete recovery. A strong muscle has the highest chance of a speedy recovery, and least chance for a deep damage. 

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Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.

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