What Are the Common Causes of Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can stem from a wide range of conditions, from overuse injuries to degenerative or inflammatory disorders. Identifying the underlying cause is an important first step in determining the most effective treatment plan. Below are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain and how they can affect mobility and comfort.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff consists of four tendons that help stabilize and move the shoulder. Overuse or injury can cause a rotator cuff tear, leading to pain, weakness, and loss of motion.
Rotator Cuff Arthropathy
When a rotator cuff tear leads to joint degeneration, rotator cuff arthropathy may develop. Treatment options can include reverse shoulder replacement or physical therapy to restore stability and function.
Shoulder Sports Injuries
Athletes often experience shoulder problems such as tendonitis, labral tears, or instability due to repetitive overhead movements. Our sports medicine providers create treatment plans that focus on rehabilitation, strength restoration, and safe return to activity.
Dislocation
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the joint moves out of place, sometimes stretching or tearing ligaments. This can sometimes result in a visible deformity in the shoulder and an inability to raise the arm.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff rubs against part of the shoulder blade. This can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder, with pain particularly felt at night.
Psoriatic Arthritis
In some patients with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis can develop in the shoulder, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain. Anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy can help manage symptoms and maintain mobility.
Arthritis in the Shoulder
Shoulder arthritis occurs when cartilage wears down, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Depending on severity, shoulder doctors may recommend shoulder arthritis treatment such as physical therapy, injections, or total shoulder replacement.
Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder bursitis happens when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) cushioning the shoulder joint become irritated or inflamed. This condition often responds well to rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, leads to stiffness and restricted motion due to inflammation in the shoulder capsule. Physical therapy, guided stretching, and targeted injections can help improve range of motion and reduce discomfort.
How is Shoulder Pain Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective shoulder care. During your visit, our orthopedic specialists will:
- Perform a detailed physical exam and review your symptoms
- Use X-rays or MRI scans to assess bones, ligaments, and tendons
- Identify the source of pain, stiffness, or weakness
- Develop a customized treatment plan suited to your needs
This comprehensive approach ensures that shoulder conditions are diagnosed correctly before moving forward with nonsurgical or surgical treatment.
What Treatments Are Available for Shoulder Pain?
At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, our shoulder specialists in Atlanta and Marietta, GA, provide the following treatments.
Anatomic Shoulder Replacement
Used for patients with healthy rotator cuff tendons but damaged joint surfaces, this procedure restores the joint’s natural structure, improving range of motion and comfort.
Total Shoulder Replacement
In cases of severe arthritis or joint damage, total shoulder replacement can restore smooth, pain-free movement. This procedure replaces the worn joint surfaces with durable implants designed for longevity.
Stemless Shoulder Replacement
A stemless shoulder replacement preserves more of the patient’s natural bone while replacing the damaged joint surface. It is often used for younger, more active patients or those with good bone quality.
Revision Shoulder Arthroplasty Surgery
For patients with prior shoulder replacements experiencing complications or loosening, revision shoulder arthroplasty may be performed to restore proper joint alignment and function.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
This surgical technique reverses the normal ball-and-socket structure of the shoulder joint, improving function when the rotator cuff tendons are severely damaged. It can help patients regain motion and reduce pain.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome Physical Therapy
Shoulder impingement syndrome can be treated effectively with physical therapy focused on strengthening, posture correction, and stretching to reduce inflammation and improve motion.
Therapy and Chiropractic Treatment
A combination of physical therapy and chiropractic treatment can relieve shoulder pain, improve mobility, and address muscle or joint imbalances.
Shoulder Injections for Arthritis
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief for arthritis or bursitis. These may be used alongside physical therapy for optimal results.
Shoulder Arthritis Treatment
This approach may involve a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, injections, rehabilitation, or surgery, depending on the severity of the arthritis and the patient’s goals.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Shoulder Specialist?
You may benefit from seeing a shoulder pain specialist if you experience:
- Persistent pain or stiffness lasting longer than a few days
- Difficulty moving your arm or raising it overhead
- Weakness or instability following an injury
- Limited range of motion affecting your daily life
- Swelling, inflammation, or pain that interferes with sleep or activity
Our shoulder surgeons and sports medicine providers in Atlanta use both nonsurgical and surgical methods to restore mobility, comfort, and function.
Schedule a Shoulder Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, stiffness, or injury, our expert shoulder doctors and orthopedic surgeons are ready to help. Our specialists combine physical medicine, rehabilitation, and sports medicine approaches to create individualized care plans.
Contact Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow in Atlanta or Marietta, GA, to schedule your in-person consultation. Our compassionate shoulder specialists will explain your treatment options and develop a plan focused on your recovery and long-term shoulder health.
