Shoulder pain can be debilitating, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. Fortunately, there are a number of medical treatments available for shoulder pain management in Atlanta. From physical therapy to cortisone injections and beyond. Whether you are suffering from chronic or acute shoulder discomfort due to an injury or illness, there is always a treatment option available to help alleviate your pain.
What Is Pain Management
This is a medical specialty focused on relieving and managing pain caused by injury, illness, or chronic conditions. It involves both pharmacological (medicines) and non-pharmacological (alternative therapies) treatments to reduce pain sensations and improve the quality of life for those living with chronic pain. Pain management professionals work to diagnose the source of pain in order to find the best methods for managing it. The goal of pain management is to reduce or prevent further pain, as well as its psychological and physical effects.
Treatment options may include medications such as opioids, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antispasmodic, or topical creams; complementary therapies like massage therapy, acupuncture, or chiropractic care; physical therapy; interventional procedures such as nerve blocks or epidural steroid injections; surgery; psychological counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy; lifestyle modifications like stress reduction techniques; self-management strategies like exercise programs; relaxation techniques including yoga, tai chi, biofeedback training, and hypnosis; support groups; and even alternative medicines like herbal remedies.
Pain management can be a highly individualized process that varies greatly between individuals depending on their specific condition.
What Are The Different Types Of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a common problem, with many potential causes. The type of pain experienced in the shoulder can vary greatly depending on the cause, ranging from mild to debilitating. Common types of shoulder pain include:
Rotator Cuff Injuries
A rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons located in the shoulder joint that control shoulder movement. Common causes of rotator cuff pain include impingement (pinched tissue), tears, and overuse injuries.
Bursitis
This condition involves inflammation of the bursae, which are small sacs filled with fluid located between bones and soft tissues in the shoulder joint. It can be caused by an injury or by repeated overuse of motions such as throwing a ball or lifting weights.
Osteoarthritis
This type of arthritis is a progressive disease that affects the joints, including those in the shoulder. Symptoms can include stiffness, swelling, and pain when the shoulder is moved or during everyday use.
Dislocated Shoulder
This occurs when the ball of a joint becomes separated from its socket. It can be caused by a blow to the shoulder joint or by an awkward fall onto an outstretched hand. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, numbness and tingling in the arm, and weakness in the shoulder area.
Broken Collarbone/Clavicle Fracture
These fractures are common among athletes who participate in contact sports as well as people who have experienced a traumatic injury such as a car accident or a fall on an outstretched arm. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected limb due to nerve damage.
When To Seek Professional Medical Treatment For Shoulder Pain Management
When it comes to managing shoulder pain, seeking professional medical treatment is essential. While there are a number of home remedies and self-care measures that may be helpful in alleviating mild discomfort, if the pain persists or worsens despite these efforts, it is important to schedule an appointment with a shoulder specialist. In some cases, however, shoulder pain can be attributed to a more serious condition that requires immediate attention from a medical provider. Causes such as heart attack, stroke, or bone fractures should not be ignored and require emergency care. If any sudden onset of chest pain or difficulty breathing occurs along with shoulder pain, it is advised to seek medical help right away.
Additionally, individuals who have been involved in trauma such as a car accident or fall should also receive professional medical attention immediately after the incident. Even if no physical injuries are visible at first glance, there could be underlying issues that could lead to chronic shoulder pain if left untreated. Overall, knowing when to seek professional medical treatment for shoulder pain management can help prevent further complications while increasing the overall quality of life. It is best to consult a shoulder specialist if you experience persistent aches and pains in your shoulders so they can properly diagnose the underlying condition and provide appropriate treatment options accordingly.
Various Medical Therapies Available For Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a common medical complaint and can range from mildly irritating to severely debilitating. Fortunately, there are many different medical therapies available that can help alleviate the discomfort associated with shoulder issues.
- Physical Therapy: It can help to restore movement, strength, and flexibility in the shoulder area. Through exercises like stretching, massage, and range of motion activities, physical therapists can help to address underlying issues that may be causing shoulder pain.
- Steroid Injections: These are a common treatment for many types of chronic pain in the shoulders, as they reduce inflammation and decrease pain levels. It's important to note that steroid injections should only be used in conjunction with other treatments such as physical therapy or rest, instead of as a stand-alone solution.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are helpful for reducing inflammation in the shoulder area, which can reduce pain and swelling.
- Surgery: In some cases, shoulder surgery may be necessary to correct a structural abnormality or relieve chronic pain. Common types of shoulder surgeries include rotator cuff repair, labrum repair, and shoulder joint replacement.
- Alternative Therapies: Various alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic manipulation can provide relief from shoulder pain by helping reduce inflammation. Additionally, lifestyle modifications like stress reduction techniques and meditation can help manage the emotional aspects of chronic pain.
Why Is It Necessary To Get Medical Treatment From A Shoulder Specialist For Shoulder Pain Management
When a person experiences shoulder pain, it is important for them to seek medical treatment from a shoulder specialist for proper management and treatment.
- To accurately diagnose the cause of the shoulder pain: Shoulder specialists are well-trained to properly diagnose and identify what is causing your shoulder pain, whether it be a rotator cuff tear, tendonitis, bursitis, or something more serious like arthritis.
- To determine the best course of treatment for you: Depending on the diagnosis, your shoulder specialist will then be able to recommend which type of treatment is best for managing and relieving your specific symptoms. This could include physical therapy exercises, medications, or even surgery in some cases.
- To help prevent future injury: With proper management and treatment from a professional shoulder specialist, you can reduce your risk of potential future injuries by learning how to move and position your body correctly while doing certain activities.
- To ensure a quicker recovery: Receiving medical treatment from a shoulder specialist can help speed up the healing process due to their knowledge and expertise in helping patients recover from shoulder-related injuries or conditions.
Make An Appointment With A Licensed Shoulder Specialist In Atlanta
Shoulder specialists are highly specialized doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder-related issues, ranging from common conditions such as rotator cuff tears to more complex injuries that can require surgery. At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, they offer world-class specialty care from top specialists. Their Atlanta shoulder specialists are board-certified and have extensive training in the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic methods available. To make an appointment, please call them or fill out an online appointment request.
