We have likely all experienced shoulder pain at one point or another. However, it can be difficult to know if this pain is serious enough to seek medical attention. Yet we must educate ourselves on how to recognize severe shoulder pain as unaddressed pain can lead to more serious issues down the road.
Shoulder pain can arise in both older and younger patients. Typically, shoulder pain in older patients is likely caused by arthritis while younger patients with shoulder pain probably engage in sports or activities involving repetitive overhead motions. In either case, learning how to recognize the warning signs of shoulder pain is key to preventing further complications.
Here are the telltale signs that should signal for you to schedule a visit with your doctor:
- Persistent Pain: If your shoulder injury is minor, your pain should subside within a few days. If your pain is persistent and not letting up, your injury is likely severe and it may be time to see your physician.
- Restricted Range of Motion: The shoulder is the most versatile joint, allowing for a large range of motion. When your shoulder pain is accompanied by a limited range of motion in your shoulder, it could signify an underlying injury or condition. Seeking medical attention quickly could prevent your stiffness from worsening.
- Severe Pain: When injuring your shoulder, if you experience a sharp, sudden, or extreme pain this should not be ignored. This could indicate a serious injury such as a rotator cuff tear or dislocation which should both be treated immediately.
- Muscle Weakness: If you notice that you are not only experiencing shoulder pain but also muscle weakness in your arm or shoulder, you will want to see your physician as soon as possible. Muscle weakness can indicate nerve compression or muscle damage in your shoulder joint.
- Numbness: Another symptom that may accompany your shoulder pain is numbness or a tingling sensation in your shoulder or arm. This feeling could indicate nerve compression which if untreated can result in serious sensation issues in the future.
- Misshapen Shoulder Joint: Most often, when you are experiencing shoulder pain along with a misshapen shoulder joint, it is a dislocation. Shoulder dislocations are severe and medical attention should be sought immediately.
- Excess Shoulder Inflammation: Your body initiates an inflammatory response in response to injury. If you notice your shoulder swelling up, it could signify a fracture, sprain, or tear in your shoulder.
If you are suffering from shoulder pain and questioning whether to see your doctor or not, it is better to be safe than sorry. Schedule an appointment with our expert physicians at South Palm Orthopedics so that you can alleviate your pain now!
The physicians at South Palm Orthopedics specialize in orthopedic conditions ranging from trauma to joint replacement. Our team is committed to providing the highest orthopedic care level to every patient, every time. Our team of physicians provides an advanced level of care, integrating the newest techniques with proven traditional methods of treatment.