Understanding Shoulder Pain: Key Pain Generators
The shoulder joint consists of several structures that may contribute to pain:
- Glenohumeral Joint (Ball-and-Socket Joint) – The primary joint between the humerus (ball) and the glenoid of the scapula (socket)
- Rotator Cuff – A group of four muscles that stabilize and strengthen the shoulder
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint – Located between the clavicle and acromion (part of the scapula), sitting above the rotator cuff
- Tendons – Such as the long head of the biceps tendon, which assists in arm movement
- Bursa – Fluid-filled sacs like the subacromial subdeltoid bursa, which help reduce friction in the joint
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain may develop due to:
- Injury – Trauma from falls, sports, or accidents
- Degeneration – Wear and tear over time
- Inflammation – Swelling in the joints or soft tissues
- Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled bursae that cushion the joint
- Tendonitis – Irritation of the rotator cuff or biceps tendons
- Arthritis – Degeneration of the glenohumeral or acromioclavicular joints
Recognizing the Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
Common signs of shoulder-related injuries and conditions include:
- Persistent pain in the shoulder
- Radiating pain extending to the elbow or neck
- Limited range of motion
- Pain that worsens with overhead movements
- Weakness or instability in the shoulder joint
If your pain does not improve with rest, ice, anti-inflammatories, or physical therapy, schedule an appointment at OPS Surgery Center for expert evaluation.
If you have shoulder pain, platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy may help. It uses parts of your own blood to help your body heal itself. PRP can help your shoulder feel better and work better.
Diagnosis: Identifying the Source of Shoulder Pain
At OPS Surgery Center, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to determine the cause of shoulder pain, including:
- Comprehensive medical history and physical examination
- Imaging tests, such as MRI, X-ray, or ultrasound, to assess soft tissue damage, joint integrity, and inflammation
Find Relief from Shoulder Pain at OPS Surgery Center
Shoulder pain can limit mobility and affect daily life, but with the right treatment, long-term relief is possible. At OPS Surgery Center, our specialists provide state-of-the-art, personalized treatments to help you restore function and live pain-free.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and explore the best treatment options for your shoulder pain!
