Shoulder pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages. The shoulder is a complex joint with many connecting tissues, muscles, and tendons, making it susceptible to various injuries and conditions. So, if you are looking to know more about shoulder pain, its types, causes, and treatments, you have arrived at the right place. 

In this blog post, we will discuss the common types of shoulder pain, what causes them, and the most effective treatment options available. So, without wasting any time, let’s begin. 

Types of Shoulder Pain

There are five main categories of shoulder pain that you should know. These are:

• Rotator Cuff Injuries – The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff injuries like tendinitis, strains, and tears are common causes of shoulder pain.
• Arthritis – Osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint causes pain and stiffness that gets worse with age. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that leads to shoulder pain and swelling.
• Dislocations – A shoulder dislocation occurs when the humerus bone pops out of the shoulder socket. This causes severe pain and disability.
• Frozen Shoulder – Also called adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder causes stiffness and loss of motion in the shoulder joint. Daily activities become very difficult.
• Fractures – A broken bone in the shoulder area from injury or accident causes significant shoulder pain.

To get the best treatments, you should visit the best hospital in Delhi. The expert doctors will evaluate your situation and then give you the required treatment. This will also help you in detecting your problem at an early stage. 

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

There are several factors that can contribute to pain in the shoulder region. Some of them are:

• Injuries – Shoulder sprains, dislocations, and fractures from sports, falls, or accidents. Repeated overhead motions can also result in rotator cuff tears.
• Improper lifting – Repeated overhead lifting using the shoulder causes injury over time.
• Poor posture – Slumped posture causes muscle imbalance and eventual shoulder joint problems.
• Age – As we get older, everyday wear and tear leads to issues like arthritis and rotator cuff tears.
• Bone spurs – Extra bone growth called bone spurs can impair shoulder joint movement.
• Repetitive strain – Repeated shoulder motions during work, sports, or hobby activities can result in repetitive strain.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

Treating shoulder pain depends greatly on the underlying condition causing it. Here are some of the most effective treatment methods that you can try:

• Rest – Taking a break from any activities that aggravate shoulder pain. This helps with recovery by giving some rest to your shoulders.
• Ice/Heat Packs – Applying ice packs to relieve pain and swelling. Heat packs soothe shoulder muscles.
• NSAIDs – Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen help relieve pain.
• Physical Therapy – Special shoulder exercises improve flexibility and strengthen muscles supporting the joint.
• Surgery – Severe shoulder problems like dislocations and rotator cuff tears may need surgery to get proper treatment.
• Steroid Injections – Cortisone shots can temporarily relieve shoulder pain. It is good for arthritis and rotator cuff issues.

When to Visit the Best Hospital in Delhi 

You should consider seeking medical care for your shoulder pain if:

• The pain comes on suddenly after an injury, fall, or accident.
• Your normal range of motion is severely restricted.
• You experience loss of strength or numbness/tingling in the arm or hand.
• You have extreme shoulder pain at night that prevents sleeping.
• Swelling around the shoulder joint doesn’t subside after a few days.
• Over-the-counter medications provide no relief.
• The pain persists for more than a few weeks.

Seeking prompt medical care is crucial for any sudden shoulder trauma with severe symptoms. Chronic shoulder issues that don’t improve with home care methods also require professional evaluation. Depending on the diagnosis, options like medication changes, shoulder injections, surgery, or physical therapy may be considered for stubborn shoulder problems.

Lifestyle Tips To Help Prevent Shoulder Pain

Good self-care goes a long way in preventing painful shoulder problems down the road. Here are some tips that you can consider suggested by the expert team of a multispeciality hospital in Delhi. 

• Maintain proper posture and positioning during daily activities. Avoid slouching.
• Build shoulder strength and flexibility with regular exercise. Don’t overdo weightlifting.
• Allow adequate rest between strenuous shoulder activities like sports or yard work.
• Use correct techniques when lifting heavy objects. Keep loads close to the body.
• Stretch the shoulder muscles well before and after exercise sessions.
• Wear a backpack over both shoulders to evenly distribute weight.
• Avoid sleeping on your shoulder in the same position every night.
• Use relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation to release shoulder muscle tension.
• Apply heat or cold therapy after shoulder activity to prevent inflammation.
• See a physical therapist if you have muscle imbalances or joint restrictions.
• Consider ergonomic adjustments to your workstation if you have a desk job.
• Quit smoking and lose weight to reduce risk, if relevant.
• Learn joint protection strategies to reduce repetitive strain.

The key is listening to warning signs from your shoulder and avoiding activities that cause excessive pain or discomfort. Making positive lifestyle changes can go a long way in preventing many common shoulder problems.

The Takeaway

Understanding the type of shoulder pain you have is essential for effective treatment. Resting the joint, moderate exercise, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and surgery are all options depending on the cause of pain. Practicing good shoulder joint care through posture, stretching, resting periods, and proper movement can help avoid many chronic issues. 

With some patience and the right treatment plan, shoulder pain can typically be managed well. If you are looking for the best multispeciality hospital in Delhi for getting expert advice and treatment for your shoulder pain, PSRI Hospital is here to help. They have a specialized team of doctors who have years of experience in diagnosing the correct problems and treating them accordingly. 

So book an appointment in the best hospital in Delhi and keep yourself healthy and happy.