Shoulder the Pain
The shoulder is a “ball-and-socket” joint made up of the upper arm bone (humerus), shoulder blade (scapula) and collarbone (clavicle). As the most flexible joint in the body, it allows for a full range of motion, but also makes the shoulder prone to injury and instability.
About Shoulder Pain
Shoulder injuries affect millions annually, often from sports, repetitive tasks, or falls. The ideal treatment for shoulder pain varies based on the specific cause and location of discomfort. After a comprehensive assessment, your health care provider will recommend the most suitable approach for your situation. In many cases, shoulder issues respond well to conservative treatments, including rest, ice or heat application, gentle stretching, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. While nonsurgical methods successfully manage numerous shoulder problems, surgery is sometimes required to fully resolve the issue and support long-term mobility and an active lifestyle.
While surgery remains an option for severe or unstable injuries, regenerative medicine offers a powerful alternative for most patients. Clinical studies show significant pain relief and improved mobility in 60–80% of cases, often within weeks, allowing you to stay active and avoid the operating room.
Results vary. Always consult a qualified regenerative medicine specialist to see if you’re a candidate.
Bursitis or Tendonitis
An inflammation of fluid sacs or tendons. Side effects are typically burning pain, tenderness, swelling over the joint.
Rotator Cuff Tear
Damage to the muscles/tendons stabilizing the shoulder which manifest in a dull ache in the shoulder (worsens at night), arm weakness, limited overhead motion
Osteoarthritis
In simple terms, osteoarthritis is joint cartilage breakdown. Stiffness after inactivity, grinding sensation, pain with use are all side effects.
Shoulder Instability
An autoimmune disorder causing chronic wrist inflammation, leading to pain and potential deformity.
Shoulder Impingement
Tendons pinched under the acromion bone, results in sharp pain when lifting arms overhead, swelling, muscle weakness.
Labral Injury
Rip in the cartilage rim of the socket. Often feels like a deep pain, along with clicking/popping sensation, and instability.
Shoulder Dislocation
If the humerus head pops out of socket, a shoulder is dislocated. Intense pain, visible deformity, numbness, inability to move arm are all side effects.
Frozen Shoulder
Stiffening of the joint capsule. Results in gradual stiffness, severe pain (especially at night), reduced range of motion.
Bicep Tendon Tear
A unique popping sensation, cramping in the front of the arm, as well as the “Popeye” bulge.
Nerve Injuries
Trauma leading to sensory changes and shoulder pain.
Overuse Injuries
Micro-traumas from activities like construction, music, or office work, contributing to repetitive shoulder pain.
Systemic Conditions
Diabetes or thyroid issues causing neuropathy-related shoulder discomfort.
Common Shoulder Pain treatments
Most shoulder pain stems from overuse, injury, or wear-and-tear in the body’s most mobile joint. Treatment starts simple and escalates only if needed—70–80 % of patients improve without surgery using rest, medication, and physical therapy (Sources: NEJM, BMJ, JBJS, Cochrane Review, AAOS Guidelines). The goal is always to relieve pain, restore motion, and prevent recurrence with the least invasive methods first. Below are the standard treatments used every day. We want to help you make informed decisions with your healthcare provider at Blue Ribbon Stem.
Rest and Immobilization
Limiting movement or adjusting activity to reduce strain. Avoid aggravating motions (e.g., overhead reach) for 2–6 weeks; use sling only if unstable.
Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice reduces swelling; heat improves blood flow. Offers temporary shoulder pain relief; ice may damage skin if overused, and heat can worsen acute inflammation.
Over-the-Counter Medications: NSAIDs like Ibuprofen
While meds certainly can reduce inflammation and pain, there is risk of stomach issues, kidney strain with long-term use, or masking pain symptoms without addressing causes.
Corticosteroid Injections
Anti-inflammatory shots for quick relief. Often have short-term effects, with risks of tendon weakening, infection, or skin changes after repeated use.
Physical Therapy
Using targeted exercises to improve strength and increase flexibility, and restore function, empowering you to regain control over daily tasks. Requires consistent effort.
Surgery
Corrects structural issues such as torn rotator cuff tendons, ligaments, or cartilage, are identified and repaired. Involves recovery time, anesthesia risks, and potential complications like infection or incomplete pain resolution.
Explore Your Options with Blue Ribbon Stem
If you’re dealing with shoulder pain, understanding its causes and treatment options is the first step. At Blue Ribbon Stem, we’re committed to providing educational resources on wrist pain conditions and supporting you in exploring next steps. Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation with a healthcare professional.
