Some of us have the temperament to push through pain, especially shoulder pain since it is so common. We tell ourselves that it will go away, feel better tomorrow, or that we are too busy to handle it at the moment. In some cases, shoulder pain does dissipate with rest, but the pain can often increase or resurge if neglected. That is why consulting your doctor is key to conquering that shoulder pain. Shoulder pain treatment is particularly effective if you want to avoid that stabbing or burning pain in your shoulder in the future.

Also, a jumpstart on diagnosis and treatment can broaden your treatment options (you may qualify for conservative options vs. surgery), prevent further damage to your shoulder joint and future injuries, and help you manage the shoulder pain so you can return to daily activities, such as brushing your hair, putting on your jacket, reaching up, or playing baseball, without constantly worrying about or feeling shoulder pain.

How do I determine the cause of my shoulder pain?

First, see your doctor for a diagnosis. If you have shoulder pain, then you can go to the ORTHOKnox orthopedic clinics in Knoxville, Tennessee, or Athens, Tennessee, for a diagnosis. Are you overusing your shoulder muscles? Did you damage a tendon in your shoulder? Or is the pain caused by the wearing down of your cartilage? Your doctor will be able to examine your shoulder and narrow down the cause of your pain. Follow-up tests (e.g., X-ray, MRI, CT scan) may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis, and then you can begin treatment and be on your way to relieving your shoulder pain.

What are my treatment options for shoulder pain?

Your doctor may begin shoulder pain treatment by prescribing anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections to help relieve your shoulder pain while you rest.

In many cases, including overuse, arthritis, and minor joint injuries, physical therapy can also help relieve shoulder pain. ORTHOKnox has a skilled group of on-site physical therapists that can work with you to provide shoulder pain relief. Your physical therapist will develop a strengthening program for your shoulder muscles and help you perform exercises to improve your range of motion and increase your flexibility.

Some injuries or arthritis cannot be treated with conservative measures, and you may need arthroscopic shoulder surgery for a rotator cuff repair, Bankart reconstruction, subacromial decompression for shoulder impingement, or treatment for shoulder arthritis. You will work with a physical therapist after your surgery to build strength and flexibility in your shoulder again. Your program will also focus on injury prevention, so you can work to keep the shoulder pain away.

Shoulder Pain Treatment in Knoxville and Athens, TN

With its on-site physical therapists, board-certified surgeon, and Orthopedic Urgent Care that is available without an appointment, ORTHOKnox has got you covered. For more information about how ORTHOKnox can treat your shoulder pain, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you!