Shoulder pain is a prevalent issue that can significantly impact our daily lives. It may result from various causes, ranging from overuse injuries to degenerative conditions. Fortunately, many cases of shoulder pain can be effectively managed and treated without resorting to surgery. In this blog, we will explore some of the common causes of shoulder pain and the non-surgical treatment options available for each condition.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint. Overuse, trauma, or age-related degeneration can lead to rotator cuff injuries, such as tears or strains. Non-surgical treatments for rotator cuff injuries include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. Physical therapy helps strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, reducing strain on the injured tendons and promoting healing.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is a condition characterised by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the tissues around the shoulder joint become thick and tight, limiting its movement. Non-surgical treatments for frozen shoulders include gentle stretching exercises, heat therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy is especially crucial for regaining mobility and function in the affected shoulder.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Shoulder impingement syndrome is caused by the compression of tendons and bursa in the shoulder when the arm is raised. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and limited range of motion. Non-surgical treatments include activity modification, rest, physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.
Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near the joints. In the shoulder, bursitis can cause pain and tenderness. Non-surgical treatments include rest, ice or heat therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to improve shoulder strength and flexibility.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon, often caused by repetitive motions or overuse. In the shoulder, tendinitis most commonly affects the biceps or the rotator cuff tendons. Non-surgical treatments include rest, icing the affected area, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended for pain relief.
Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis can cause chronic pain and stiffness in the joint, making everyday activities challenging. While arthritis itself cannot be reversed, non-surgical treatments aim to manage the symptoms and improve function. Treatments may include physical therapy, pain medications, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle modifications.
Nerve Impingement (Thoracic Outlet Syndrome)
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome occurs when the blood vessels or nerves in the space between the collarbone and the first rib become compressed. It can lead to shoulder pain, numbness, and tingling in the arm. Non-surgical treatments may involve physical therapy, postural exercises, and pain management techniques.
At QC Kinetix Homewood, they go to the root cause of your shoulder pain and enlist your body’s extraordinary abilities to repair and restore itself to resolve the pain. Their methods leverage leading methodologies and natural processes for restoring shoulder joint tissues. They use customised biologics and non-surgical, regenerative treatments that promote the rebuilding of healthy tissues. For more details, visit: https://qckinetix.com/birmingham/homewood-al