Shoulder pain is a common problem, and without prompt treatment, it can turn into a long-term struggle with chronic weakness or instability. The team at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine specializes in targeting the source of your shoulder pain and developing an individualized treatment that eases the pain and restores shoulder strength. To schedule an appointment, call the office in Bozeman, Montana, or use the online booking feature today.
In your shoulders, a group of muscles called the rotator cuff holds your arm in the joint and support its full range of motion. These muscles endure a lot of stress from repetitive and frequent movement. As a result, the rotator cuff and its tendons are susceptible to painful injuries.
The conditions that frequently cause shoulder pain include:
Anyone can develop shoulder pain, but your risk is higher if you engage in overhead activities like pitching, weight lifting, and painting.
If you have shoulder pain, chances are you also experience other symptoms such as:
If you have a shoulder fracture, you may notice swelling and bruising.
You’re at risk of developing joint instability when injuries to the shoulder’s ligaments or labrum, which is a thick piece of cartilage around the rim of the shoulder socket, cause your pain.
With prompt treatment, these tissues can heal properly and regain the strength needed to maintain a strong joint. If you ignore shoulder pain and keep using your shoulder, the tissues can’t heal. Then they progressively weaken, and you develop chronic joint instability.
After reviewing your medical history and symptoms and finishing a physical exam, your provider at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine may take X-rays or an MRI to verify the source of your pain.
Then they develop a customized treatment plan that may include any of the following:
Because your shoulder bears an incredible amount of stress, many injuries may need surgical repair to ensure they regain optimal strength and function.
Your provider may recommend minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for dislocations, fractures, labral tears, rotator cuff tears, and ruptured tendons and ligaments.
When you need experienced care for shoulder pain, call Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, or request an appointment online today.