Shoulder Pain Specialists in New York

Topic at a Glance

  • Shoulder pain is common and can result from injuries, overuse, or conditions affecting the shoulder joint, rotator cuff, or surrounding soft tissues.
  • Symptoms range from mild discomfort and reduced range of motion to severe pain, swelling, and shoulder instability.
  • Effective treatments may include physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity.
  • At NY Neurology Associates in New York, we specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain so you can get back to your daily life without discomfort holding you back.

What Are the Causes of Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain can be caused by an injury or some other shoulder problems. Below are some of the common causes of shoulder pain.

  1. Muscle strains: Rotator cuff tears and muscle damage can occur when a backward force is placed on the shoulder or arm. A rotator cuff tear will usually occur in the front of the shoulder.
  2. Rotator cuff tendinitis: This is when the rotator cuff tendons in your shoulder become inflamed. It can happen through injury or develop over time.
  3. Shoulder joint instability: Some people have a natural looseness in their joints that causes instability and pain.
  4. Bone fractures in the surrounding areas: Fractures can occur through impacts such as from a fall, while playing sports, or an automobile accident.
  5. Pinched nerves: This usually occurs when a nerve from the neck is pinched or irritated near the shoulder.
  6. Dislocated shoulder: This can happen if your arm is pulled backward or rotated too far. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket.
  7. Separation: This is when an injury causes the shoulder blade to separate from the collarbone.
  8. Osteoarthritis: When the cartilage that lines your shoulder wears down, it can cause pain and stiffness. Bone spurs can develop as a result.
  9. Bursitis: The bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint of the shoulder. Repetitive use can cause the bursa to be inflamed, resulting in bursitis.
  10. Frozen shoulder: This is when the tissues around the shoulder become thicker and stiffer. It can result in pain and a reduced range of motion.
  11. Referred Pain: When this discomfort results from injuries or conditions from other areas of the body, it is called “referred pain.” The pain usually does not get worse with the movement of the shoulder.

What Are the Symptoms of a Shoulder Problem?

There are certain symptoms you may experience which indicate you have a problem with your shoulder. Below are some of the possible symptoms that indicate a problem with your shoulder.

  1. Discomfort in and around your shoulder
  2. Reduced range of motion in the shoulder
  3. Feeling like your shoulder could pop out of its socket
  4. Weakness in your shoulder joints

When to See a Doctor About Your Shoulder Pain

There are certain instances of shoulder pain that require you to see a doctor right away. Below are some of the cases when you should see a doctor.

  1. You have severe pain in your shoulder.
  2. Your shoulder looks deformed.
  3. You can’t use your shoulder at all.
  4. There is sudden swelling in your shoulder.
  5. There is numbness or weakness in your arm or hand.
  6. If the pain from your shoulder radiates down your arm and chest, this could be a sign of a heart attack and would require emergency attention.

How Shoulder Pain is Diagnosed

An accurate diagnosis of your shoulder pain is essential to provide the proper treatment. At NY Neurology Associates, our physicians carry out several diagnostic methods.

First, you will be asked to relate your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. Our specialists will also perform a physical exam to pinpoint the reason for your pain.

Medical tests may be performed to get an accurate diagnosis. The following medical and imaging tests may be used to diagnose your shoulder pain.

  1. X-rays
  2. MRI scans
  3. Blood tests

How to Treat Shoulder Pain

There are a variety of methods that can be used to help you manage your shoulder pain. The doctors at NY Neurology Associates may recommend the following treatments for shoulder pain.

  • Modifying activity
  • Physical therapy
  • Pain medication
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Shoulder surgery

Experience Shoulder Pain Relief in New York

You don’t have to live with painful shoulders, a limited range of motion, or ongoing discomfort. At NY Neurology Associates, we provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs, from imaging tests and physical therapy referrals to advanced pain relief options when necessary.

If you’re ready to relieve shoulder pain and restore function in your affected arm, schedule a consultation with our team in New York today. Call us or book online to start your journey toward lasting shoulder pain relief.

FAQs About Shoulder Pain

Here are some common questions about shoulder pain.

Shoulder pain can be caused by an injury or some other shoulder problems.

Symptoms that indicate a problem with your shoulder include discomfort in and around your shoulder, reduced range of motion in the shoulder, feeling like your shoulder could pop out of its socket, and weakness in your shoulder joints.

You should see a doctor right away if you have severe pain in your shoulder, your shoulder looks deformed, you can’t use your shoulder at all, there is sudden swelling in your shoulder, there is numbness or weakness in your arm or hand, or if the pain from your shoulder radiates down your arm and chest.

Shoulder pain is diagnosed by consulting your medical history, a physical exam, and possibly using imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs.

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