Shoulder pain leads to reduced movement and hinders basic activities. The shoulder joint offers an extensive range of motion due to its complex structure, also leaving it vulnerable to instability and injury. Building muscle strength and flexibility around the joint can help reduce the risk of pain and discomfort.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
Common sources of shoulder pain include acute injuries and degenerative conditions. The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that provide stability, is frequently affected. Repeated overhead activities can lead to conditions like tendinitis and bursitis, which stem from inflammation of soft tissues in the joint.
Arthritis is another contributor. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage degeneration at the ends of bones, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness that worsens over time. Shoulder instability may occur when the head of the upper arm bone is forced from the socket, often following trauma. After a dislocation, loose ligaments can lead to repeated problems with stability.
What Exercises Can Prevent It?
Integrating targeted exercises into your routine helps strengthen the shoulder and support its complex structure. Building up the rotator cuff gives the joint added resilience. Before starting any exercise routine, it is advisable to speak with a medical professional.
Internal and external rotation exercises focus on the rotator cuff and can be done with a lightweight resistance band or a small dumbbell. Keep your elbow tucked into your side at a 90-degree angle. For external rotation, move your forearm outward; for internal rotation, pull it across your stomach. This controlled motion can engage and strengthen the stabilizing muscles.
Arm circles may help enhance mobility and circulation in the shoulder. Stand leaning forward with feet shoulder-width apart and arms extended. Move your arms in small circles, then you may reverse the motion. This warms up the joint and can prepare it for other exercises or daily activities. Consistent use of these movements may help foster shoulder health and reduce the chance of discomfort or injury.
How Is Pain Treated?
Treatment for shoulder pain depends on both its cause and severity. Rest and modifying physical activity to avoid aggravating movements are standard first steps. Physical therapy is often recommended to restore mobility and rebuild strength. Common medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), used to address pain and inflammation. Some cases may respond to corticosteroid injections, which deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint.
For patients who do not experience relief from standard nonsurgical interventions, regenerative options such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or stem cell therapy may be explored. PRP therapy involves using a concentration of the patient’s own platelets to promote tissue repair when injected into the shoulder. Stem cell therapy utilizes cells that have the ability to develop into various types of tissue. These cells can support the body’s natural repair processes.
Confer With a Pain Specialist
Ongoing or recurring shoulder pain warrants assessment by a healthcare provider. Early evaluation may identify the underlying cause and support the development of an effective treatment plan. Pain management specialists can perform a comprehensive assessment and guide you through evidence-based treatment options. Addressing discomfort early may prevent chronic issues, supporting your long-term well-being.
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