Shoulder Pain
Shoulder Pain can originate in the joint or from the surrounding tissues.
Typically, shoulder pain is aggravated by movement and activities. Shoulder pain can be referred, which means that it comes from somewhere else in the body.
The shoulder is a joint which has three main bones, the humerus, the scapula, and the clavicle.
The Humerus
The humerus is the longer bone in the arm that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. The humeral upper extremity consists of a rounded top, a narrow middle, and two short tubercles, sometimes called tuberosities. The humerus is one of the most commonly damaged bones in the body.
The Clavicle
The clavicle/collarbone is a long bone between the shoulder blade and the sternum. There is a clavicle on each side of your body and it is the only long bone in the body that lies horizontally. It is the most commonly broken bone in the human body. It is easily fractured by impact to the shoulder or by a direct hit.
The Scapula
The scapula/shoulder blade is the bone that connects the humerus with the clavicle. Just like the clavicle, there is a scapula on each side of your body. The scapula is a flat bone resembling the shape of a triangle.
The Joints
There are two main joints, the acromioclavicular joint and the glenohumeral joint. The glenohumeral joint allows the arm to move in circular motions and moves the shoulder back and forth.
Shoulder Pain is considered the third most common cause of musculoskeletal problems. It is a common issue that can highly impact basic occupational or functional work as well as daily motion.
Conditions Associated with Shoulder Pain
- Cancer Pain
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Tendinitis and Bursitis
Common Treatments for Shoulder Pain
- Epidural Nerve Block
- Intra-Articual Joint Injections
- Medication Management
- Trigger Point Injections
Shoulder Pain FAQs
What is the main cause of shoulder pain?
The shoulder is the most movable joint with the least stability. The rotator Cuff provides this free range of movement to the shoulder. Sometimes, the rotator cuff tendon may become pinched under the shoulder bone, which causes tendons to swell. Tendons can become inflamed or damaged. This is the most common cause of shoulder discomfort and is known as rotator cuff tendonitis or bursitis.
How do I know what type of shoulder pain I have?
Your doctor will begin with a basic physical exam to rule out structural problems or problems related to the spine or neck. Next, they might perform basic tests to check your range of motion, flexibility and muscle strength. This will identify the affected area of the shoulder. X-rays and other Imaging tests such as MRIs and ultrasounds may also be performed to look for damage to joints, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.
When should you be concerned about shoulder pain?
Your doctor will begin with a basic physical exam to rule out structural problems or problems related to the spine or neck. Next, they might perform basic tests to check your range of motion, flexibility and muscle strength. This will identify the affected area of the shoulder. X-rays and other Imaging tests such as MRIs and ultrasounds may also be performed to look for damage to joints, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.
When should you be concerned about shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain may go away independently with certain home remedies and self-care treatments. However, if your shoulder pain is caused by an injury ( fracture or dislocation), you should seek immediate medical attention. Any of these severe symptoms might accompany your shoulder pain-
- A joint that looks to be twisted
- Inability to lift your arm away from your body or use the joint
- Unbearable pain
- Swelling that occurs suddenly
- Extreme Redness
What is the best treatment for shoulder pain?
It would help if you first tried some home remedies to ease your shoulder pain. Apply ice to the shoulder for 15 minutes, then take it off for another 15 minutes. Repeat 3-4 times each day for 2-3 days. Rest your shoulder over the next few days. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) may also help to reduce inflammation and pain.
However, if the pain persists or gets severe, seek a doctor's advice immediately. They might recommend other common treatments such as Epidural Nerve Block, Intra-Articular Joint Injections, Medication Management and Trigger Point Injections.
Patient Testimonials
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The care they give is amazing. The front desk gals are so friendly and helpful assisting with anything I've asked. My PA Nathan is very knowledgeable, personable and has been amazing in assisting me with my pain issue's along with other problems. I would and do recommend them to my friends and family.
SanDee Rhett
February 16, 2024I recently had a visit and hip injection by Dr. Sneddon. He is brilliant. Very nice man who figured out a problem I didn't even know I had. Would recommend to anyone. The team is also very pleasant and professional.
Becky Leighton
February 5, 2024Always helpful and great to see. Once again they came through for me with amazing help! I couldn't leave another 5 star review so I would like to add and just let everyone know how amazing Emily M. and Melissa F. are! The reception are always so friendly and helpful, everyone I've had contact with have always been incredible and positive and make every visit great! I referring to the North side location, as I've never been to the other one, they know how to hire the right people!
Brandon K
January 19, 2024 -
I have been a patient with Spine Team for about the last two years and have to say they are number one! Dr. Emily has been a great listener and really pays special attention to my needs also the other team members Angel and Laicy do a fine job of keeping my appointments on time and checking me in. Life is a journey and not a destination and with the help Spine Team North my quality of life has improved greatly.
ryan kunz
December 19, 2023I've been very impressed with the care Emily and her MA Laicy has given me. From the beginning Emily has done everything that she can to see that I go in the right direction for the pain that I've been in. I'm so grateful for my knee injections. I'm starting to feel like a normal person. I will continue recommending Spine Team.
Kathleen Hartshorn
November 19, 2023Kellie is a knowledgeable and effective therapist for physical pain. She not only diminishes alot of the pain at the visit but she has so much information on any specific part of my body that we are working on at the time that I get educated which helps me understand. She is a positive person. She has an upbeat and outgoing personality. I always look forward to seeing her. She is definitely a bright spot in my day! And...my pain is always better the day she treats me. Win -win.
Jillybean
November 19, 2023 -
I want to comment on my visits to see Emily and Laicy at the north office; they are so professional and caring! I feel so comfortable with talking to them about the issues I may have at the time and know that when I leave my appointment that we have gone over everything with answers. It is a great feeling that when you walk in the receptionist are so kind and easy going and to go to your appointment and you have the most upbeat and professional healthcare; it just makes your day!
Brenda B Kastelein
November 19, 2023I have have been going to Spine Team for 2 1/2 years. I cannot say enough good things about Emily and Laicy. They know me know my case and are so helpful with anything I need. Even though I have moved farther south in Idaho I will still continue to keep my care with them Thank you
Candi Rosco
November 19, 2023Emily and Laicy @ Spokane Spine Team are great!! All the staff are wonderful! I love working with Emily. She is such a caring and compassionate Doctor and is always trying to find ways to get rid of my pain or make it more manageable. And great big THANK YOU to everyone, especially Emily, at Spokane Spine Team, for all that you do for everyone!! 😊❤️
MARGIEANN PENNINGTON
November 19, 2023
