The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body and is an essential part of our daily lives. The shoulder complex contains several different bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and cartilage that allow you to rotate your arm in all directions with ease. There are many other causes of pain around the shoulder area that will affect everybody at some point in their lives. A couple of those causes will be dealt with in this article, the first being shoulder injuries, and the second shoulder impingement. This article looks at some of the most common types of shoulder injuries that may require a visit to a doctor specializing in treating shoulder injuries in La Jolla. Read on for more.
- Impingement Syndrome
Impingement syndrome is a condition where the tendons of the rotator cuff are pinched when the arm is raised above 90 degrees. A physical examination by an orthopedic surgeon in La Jolla will be required to diagnose impingement syndrome, who will also take into consideration your medical history and current symptoms you are experiencing. Symptoms may include a dull ache in the shoulder when reaching up or over your head, especially when you are doing something like brushing your hair. There may also be a burning sensation deep in the shoulder accompanied by pain at night while sleeping on that side due to the weight of your arm compressing the rotator cuff tendons.
- Rotator Cuff Tears
A rotator cuff tear is another type of shoulder injury. This occurs when the tendons in the shoulder become torn or frayed, usually due to age-related wear and tear, repetitive or heavy use, or direct trauma to the shoulder. The pain associated with these injuries varies from person to person but is most often felt at night and makes sleeping difficult. Diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear is done through a physical examination and usually involves an x-ray and/or MRI scan. A doctor may recommend a period of rest followed by a supervised strengthening and stretching program, which may help repair the damage over time.
- Bursitis
Bursa is a fluid-filled sack that provides cushioning between the shoulder’s tendons and bones. They help reduce friction during movement of the arm, therefore preventing any damage or pain from occurring. A bursitis injury occurs when the lining of the bursa becomes inflamed due to overuse, infection, or direct physical trauma. Bursitis symptoms can include pain in the shoulder when lying on that side at night, stiffness, and tenderness around the shoulder area. A doctor will examine to diagnose bursitis, which may require an MRI or ultrasound scan. When diagnosed, they will prescribe treatment depending upon the severity of the injury, which may include rest, pain killers, and physiotherapy.
- Tendonitis
This condition is caused by a shoulder injury that damages the tendons around the shoulder. Symptoms include pain in the shoulder when moving it, loss of strength in the arm, and stiffness, which often occurs during the early morning or night. Diagnosis of tendonitis is made through clinical examination and MRI scans to rule out other possible conditions that mimic tendonitis. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the injury but may involve immobilization, physiotherapy, and cortisone injections.
In summary, many different types of shoulder injuries can occur. Some are more serious than others. This article only covers a few of the most common kinds you should be aware of. Still, other shoulder conditions may require medical attention and diagnosis by an orthopedic surgeon.
