How can I prevent shoulder pain?

How to Prevent Shoulder Pain

You can mitigate shoulder pain and discomfort by taking the proper steps to minimize the risk of injury or strain. Fidel Integrated Medical Solutions is here to provide you with expert insight into what causes shoulder pain and how you can prevent shoulder pain.

Chronic Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder pain is a type of shoulder pain that typically develops over time and lasts for a period of longer than six months. The symptoms may be persistent or come in the form of flare-ups depending on the underlying cause of the chronic shoulder pain. This can be a result of tissue degeneration, inflammation, or injury.

Four Categories of Illness & Injury That Led to Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can be gradual or develop suddenly, leaving you with discomfort and limitations. The symptoms of shoulder pain depend on the specific cause and can vary greatly. The four main causes of shoulder pain include the following:

• Acute trauma
• Wear from repetitive use
• Sprains or strains
• Disease

Acute Trauma

Acute trauma refers to an event or accident that results in an impact on the shoulder. When the shoulder is hit from the front or back with force, it may be subject to internal bone damage, soft tissue damage, or a combination of both. This can occur in car accidents, falls, sports-related injuries, and other traumatic events.

Wear from Repetitive Use

For those who work in manual labor, such as carpenters or painters, or for those who play contact sports or sports that require overhead reaching, wear from repetitive use is a common reason for shoulder pain. Wear from repetitive use means engaging in the same motion consistently, resulting in a stress injury to the bones or tendons in the shoulder.

Sprains or Strains

Some movements or activities may strain the shoulder muscles or sprain the shoulder ligaments, even if they are not constantly repeated. For instance, when reaching for an item placed down low or up high, lifting a heavy item, or moving or twisting in an unusual position may cause a sprain or strain to the shoulder.

Disease

Certain diseases may result in shoulder pain. The most frequently seen disease that results in shoulder pain is osteoarthritis, which deteriorates the cartilage that protects the bones from rubbing. Rheumatoid arthritis is also common, as it targets the connective tissue and may result in shoulder pain.

Five Conditions That Lead to Shoulder Pain

Five conditions are commonly identified as the reason for shoulder pain. The five common conditions include:

• Arthritis
• Rotator cuff tears
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Shoulder dislocation

Medical Treatments for Shoulder Pain

Before determining the most effective treatment, it’s important to detect what causes shoulder pain. Once the cause is established, your healthcare provider may recommend one of the following treatment methods to alleviate the pain:

• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
• Lifestyle modifications
• Steroid injections
• Corticosteroids
• In severe cases or as a last resort, surgery

At-Home Management of Shoulder Pain

Acute shoulder pain and certain forms of chronic shoulder pain can be managed at home with the following treatments:

• Apply a cold compress to the affected shoulder to reduce swelling and ease the pain
• Rest and lifestyle modifications to ease the strain
• Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers
• Moist heat application
• Muscle relaxers

How to Prevent Shoulder Pain

It’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid shoulder pain, including the following:

• Stretch before and after physical activity
• Use proper form when lifting heavy objects or reaching overhead
• Take breaks during repetitive movements that affect the shoulders
• Maintain good posture
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet to support your bone health

When to Consult a Doctor

If, after rest and limited movement to the affected shoulder, a person is still experiencing pain or the pain is severe, relentless, or derives from an injury, it’s important to seek medical intervention immediately. Furthermore, if the shoulder is dislocated or injured from trauma, it’s imperative to go directly to the emergency room.

Prevent Shoulder Pain with Fidel Integrated Medical Solutions

If you’re navigating the symptoms of shoulder pain or interested in learning how to prevent shoulder pain by engaging in a healthier, more balanced lifestyle, Fidel Integrated Medical Solutions is here to provide you with the guidance and expertise you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our medical professionals.