The most mobile joint in the body is the shoulder. While this allows for a wide range of motion and athletic ability, aggressive, repetitive overhead movements or taking impact can put your shoulder at risk for injury.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or significant injury, a medical professional must assess your injury and determine the best treatment. Here are some common shoulder injuries and signs you should see us at Progressive Spine & Orthopaedic for your pain.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Different shoulder injuries may require a surgeon to eliminate your pain and restore your strength, stability, and range of motion. Some of the most common include:
- Rotator cuff injuries, such as a tear or severed tendon
- Shoulder dislocation, which stretches and damages the ligaments, tendons, and muscles
- Shoulder impingement, or the inflammation or partial tear of the tendons of the shoulder joint
- Labral tears, which damage shoulder ligaments
Some examples of signs that you may be experiencing one of these injuries include:
- Pain in the area that may worsen at night or when sleeping on the affected side
- Weakness in the affected arm and shoulder
- A cracking sensation in the shoulders
Signs You Need to See a Surgeon for Your Shoulder Pain
Shoulder injuries vary in terms of severity and when they need professional care. However, there are some signs that you need to see a surgeon, such as when your shoulder pain persists despite physical therapy, rest, and pain medication. If your doctor suspects a structural problem, such as a ligament, tendon, or cartilage tear, they will likely recommend that you see a surgeon for your shoulder pain.
You should also consider seeing an orthopedic surgeon if you have the following:
- Reduced range of motion and cannot perform daily activities
- A visible deformity or instability in your shoulder
- Suffered a traumatic injury to your shoulder
- Numbness and weakness
- Difficulty in raising the hand overhead
- Pain when lifting or lowering the arm or when reaching
- Locking, popping, catching, or grinding when you move your shoulder
- Weakened shoulder strength
- A feeling as if the shoulder will "pop out of joint"
- Reduced range of motion
When You Need a New Jersey Surgeon for Shoulder Pain, We’re Here to Help
It's always best to consult your doctor for a proper evaluation and recommendations on the best course of treatment. Shoulder injuries may require unique treatments or surgical techniques ranging from pain management to physical therapy to necessary surgery to help you recover and regain the full use of your shoulder.
Dr. David Porter is an experienced, board-certified orthopedic surgeon who understands shoulder pain and injuries. He focuses on non-invasive and, when needed, minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. With an impressive training background, including a fellowship in sports medicine, Brian Porter has been the doctor for professional hockey, football, and basketball teams. He is known for his friendly professionalism and outstanding outcomes with patients.
When you need to see a surgeon for shoulder pain, contact us to schedule a consultation.