Shoulder Pain
Shoulder Pain and treatment
Shoulder pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of conditions, including rotator cuff-related pain and shoulder impingement. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach to the shoulder joint and help to stabilise and move the arm. Rotator cuff-related pain can occur when the rotator cuff is inflamed or torn. Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons and bursa in the shoulder joint become compressed and irritated, leading to pain and limited mobility. In Homephysio247, in addition to a full clinical examination, we use Ultrasound to assist in making the right diagnosis.
Steroid injections can be an effective treatment option for both rotator cuff-related pain and shoulder impingement. Steroid injections deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area, which can reduce pain and inflammation in the short term. However, repeated use of steroid injections can lead to weakening of the tendon, and may increase the risk of tendon rupture.
In addition to steroid injections, conservative treatments for rotator cuff-related pain and shoulder impingement may include rest, ice, and physiotherapy exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Another cause of shoulder pain is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the affected joint. Conservative treatments for osteoarthritis of the shoulder may include physiotherapy exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve range of motion, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications.
If conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, the clinician may recommend an ultrasound guided suprascapular nerve block or a ultrasound guided steroid injection. A suprascapular nerve block is a procedure in which a local anaesthetic and/or a corticosteroid medication is injected into the suprascapular nerve, which provides sensation to the shoulder joint. This can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint, and improve range of motion. Steroid injections can also be used to reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder joint.
It is important to note that while these treatments can provide relief from symptoms, they do not cure osteoarthritis. The clinician will work closely with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs and preferences. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding repetitive motions that strain the shoulder joint, and engaging in regular exercise can help to improve the symptoms.
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