Finding the Right Shoulder Doctor Near You: A Comprehensive Guide by Pain Treatment Specialists

Identifying Shoulder Pain: The First Step to Recovery

The shoulder joint, being one of the most mobile joints in the body, is prone to various injuries and conditions. These can range from acute injuries like sprains and fractures to chronic conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis. Identifying the root cause of your shoulder pain is pivotal in determining the most effective treatment plan. The following are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder, is prone to injuries from overuse or trauma. Rotator cuff tears, whether partial or complete, lead to pain, especially when lifting the arm. Overuse through repetitive activities, such as painting or throwing sports, often results in tendinitis, characterized by inflammation and swelling of the tendons.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a condition that leads to stiffness and restricted movement in the shoulder joint, often following immobilization. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, severely limiting motion. The exact cause is still unknown, but it is more common in individuals recovering from shoulder injuries or surgeries.

Shoulder Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near joints—become inflamed. In the shoulder, this can cause pain, swelling, and reduced movement. It often results from repetitive motion or direct pressure on the shoulder.

Arthritis

Arthritis in the shoulder joint happens when the cartilage that lines the edges of the bones wears down over time. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, affects many people as they age, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, can also affect the shoulder joint, causing inflammation and discomfort.

Shoulder Instability

Shoulder instability occurs when the head of the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket due to a sudden injury or overuse. People with shoulder instability often experience pain, an increased risk of dislocation, and a feeling of the shoulder giving out during certain activities.

Acromioclavicular Joint Disorders

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets the highest point of the shoulder blade, is susceptible to osteoarthritis and injuries such as AC joint separation. These can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when lifting the arm above the head or carrying heavy objects.

The Role of Minimally Invasive Pain Treatments

At Pain Treatment Specialists, we diagnose the root cause of your shoulder pain. Instead of quickly resorting to surgical treatments or prescribing opioids, we focus on minimally invasive pain treatments. Our goal is to alleviate your pain and restore function without the risks associated with surgery or the potential for addiction that comes with opioid use.

Corticosteroid Injections

One of the most common minimally invasive treatments for shoulder pain is administering corticosteroid injections directly into the affected area. These injections are designed to reduce inflammation and provide relief from pain. They are particularly effective for conditions like bursitis, tendinitis, and arthritis. While the relief provided by corticosteroid injections can be temporary, they can significantly improve the quality of life and functionality.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in the non-surgical treatment of shoulder pain. A customized exercise program designed by a physical therapist helps strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, increase flexibility, and improve the range of motion. These exercises can also stabilize the shoulder joint, preventing future injuries and managing conditions like rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulder.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Regenerative medicine techniques, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, represent a cutting-edge approach to pain management. PRP involves injecting a concentration of the patient’s own platelets into the injured area to promote healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. This leverages the body’s natural healing processes and is increasingly used for treating chronic tendon injuries, including those affecting the shoulder.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

For patients experiencing shoulder pain due to osteoarthritis, hyaluronic acid injections offer another minimally invasive treatment option. Hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in joint fluid, helps lubricate and cushion the joints. Injecting it into the shoulder can improve mobility and reduce pain, making it easier to perform daily activities and exercises.

Nerve Blocks

In some cases, nerve blocks are used to manage shoulder pain. This procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic near the nerves around the shoulder to temporarily block pain signals from reaching the brain. Nerve blocks can provide immediate relief for acute pain episodes and help in diagnosing the source of pain.

Why Choose Pain Treatment Specialists?

Choosing the right clinic for your shoulder pain treatment can make all the difference. At Pain Treatment Specialists, we pride ourselves on offering a unique approach to pain management that sets us apart from other treatment facilities. Here’s a deeper look into the reasons why opting for our services is a decision you can feel confident about:

Minimally Invasive Pain Treatments

Our commitment to minimally invasive treatments is foundational to our practice. We understand the apprehension that comes with the thought of surgery — the risks, the long recovery periods, and the potential for complications. That’s why we’ve dedicated our practice to providing alternatives that are not only effective but also entail minimal downtime.

No Opioids Policy

Opioids, while effective for pain relief in the short term, carry a high risk of addiction and a host of other side effects. We prioritize treatments that address the root cause of your pain without exposing you to these risks, ensuring a safer path to recovery. We believe your treatment should help you rather than lead to addictions, so we strongly avoid opioids.

Expert Team

At the heart of our clinic is a team of board-certified interventional pain doctors. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating various types of shoulder pain. Our specialists have not only excelled in their training but continue to stay abreast of the latest advancements in pain management.

Personalized Care

We believe that effective treatment starts with listening. Every patient’s pain is unique, and so should be their treatment plan. From your initial consultation to your ongoing care, our approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. We consider the intricacies of your condition, your lifestyle, and your concerns to craft a treatment that aligns with your goals.

Convenience

Recognizing the challenges that come with managing chronic pain, we make your experience as seamless as possible. Starting with free insurance verification, we take the guesswork out of understanding your coverage, ensuring there are no surprises when it comes to the cost of your treatment. Our clinics are strategically located to be accessible, and we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy life. Our aim is to not just provide exceptional care but to do so in a way that minimizes stress and disruption to your daily routine.