When Should You See a Doctor for Shoulder Pain?
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We may do not always consider how our shoulders affect our daily lives. Proper shoulder movements allow us to swing a golf club or even swim a few laps at the pool. Just like any other part of the body, the shoulders are not immune to injury. Some people experience dull aches, while others have sudden and sharp pain.
People have discomfort in their shoulders for many reasons. Board-certified physician Dr. Christie Lehman explains common causes of shoulder pain and when you should visit the doctor for a consultation. Call Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Asheville, NC to discover our many treatment options.
Symptoms of shoulder pain
The shoulder is a complicated system made of bones, joints, and tissues. For example, the top of your upper arm bone fits into the socket in your shoulder blade. The rotator cuff is a combination of tissues and muscles that keep your arm bone centered in the socket. These elements and more work together so you can move your arms comfortably with a wide range of motion.
Symptoms of shoulder pain are an indication that there is a problem with one of these moving parts. Too much discomfort can limit your movements and prevent you from performing daily activities with ease. However, shoulder pain can look different for everyone. Signs of a potential problem in Asheville, NC, include:
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A dull ache
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A sharp or severe pain
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Gradual discomfort
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Inflammation
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Muscle spasms
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Numbness
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Weakness
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Instability
When to see a doctor
Shoulder pain accompanied by other symptoms can help you decide whether you should see a doctor. If you experience pain with warmth, tenderness, or bruises around the shoulder, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lehman at your next possible convenience. Pain with a fever, breathing difficulties, or signs of infection requires medical attention right away.
Causes of shoulder pain
Most doctors agree that treating minor shoulder pain can prevent more serious complications down the road. Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine encourages you to come in even if your pain is mild. During your assessment, we can explain the different causes of shoulder pain and diagnose your condition.
For instance, shoulder tendinitis is common in athletes who perform repetitive motions or use incorrect forms. Rotator cuff tears are the result of normal wear and tear or injury. Bursitis occurs due to swelling and inflammation in the bursa, or the fluid-filled sac that cushions the tendons and muscles in the shoulder joint.
Shoulder pain treatment
Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine can offer several courses of shoulder pain treatment based on the source of your problem. Instead of relieving temporary discomfort through cortisone injections, we offer minimally-invasive solutions to maximize your natural healing response. Our goal is to help you return to your active lifestyle as soon as possible.
Alleviate symptoms of shoulder pain
Whether you are an athlete or have trouble performing daily tasks, Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine can help you live a healthy life in comfort again. If you are interested in comprehensive shoulder pain treatment, schedule an assessment with Dr. Christie Lehman in Asheville, NC. Our clinic is proud to offer you smart solutions no matter your level of pain.