12 common shoulder problems and how to treat them

Shoulder problems, causing pain, stiffness, and limitation in motion of shoulder, are the most common complaints by people. The shoulder is a junction where shoulder muscles are incorporated with ligaments and tendons. There are many reasons that cause shoulder problems, including muscle problems, overuse of muscles, joint dysfunctions, and bone problems like fractures due to injury. We will discuss 12 common shoulder problems and how to treat them.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder leads to shoulder muscle pain, and stiffness leads to immobilization of the shoulder. Physical therapy is the primary treatment, focusing on shoulder mobility exercises to gradually increase the range of motion.

Fractures

Fractures occur due to injury or fatal blow. Fractures usually involve the collarbone and upper arm bones. It can cause neck and shoulder muscle pain as well. For a full recovery, patients need rest, immobilization, and sometimes even surgery.

Impingement

Impingements' are the results of pressure exerted on soft tissues by shoulder blade, resulting in shoulder muscle pain. Rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy are all effective treatments for treatment of impingement.

Bursitis

Bursitis means there's swelling in the bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that act as padding for the shoulder joint, causing shoulder muscle strains. The most common treatments include rest, ice, and NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation.

Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator cuff tear involves a tear in the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, resulting in pain in shoulder muscles and weakness. To treat rotator cuff tears, physical therapy followed by surgery is the primary treatment.

Arthritis

Arthritis or Osteoarthritis, can cause pain in shoulder muscles, while some people also have back and shoulder muscle pain. Rest, physical therapy and medication are the treatment plan for arthritis.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is caused by inflammations in the tendons, resulting in shoulder muscle strains. It can be treated by rest, medication and physical therapy. 

Shoulder dislocation

Shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. It is important to seek medical treatment immediately to relocate the shoulder.

Labral Tear

Labral Tear, is a cuff roof cartilage lining the shoulder socket, can tear due to injury or overuse. This condition may cause shoulder muscle strain and instability, Primary treatments include physical therapy and rest.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome results from the compression of the nerves or blood vessels in the neck and shoulder region, leading to neck and shoulder muscle pain. Pain may be managed with physical therapy, medication, or, in extreme situations, surgery.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial Pain Syndrome is another shoulder problem causing chronic pain in the shoulder muscles and connective tissues. Physical therapy, massage, and trigger point injections can help relieve pain.

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains involve ligament damage and pertain to muscle or tendon injuries resulting in back and shoulder muscle pain. Treatments could include resting the affected area, applying ice, and compressing it.

Prevention

Shoulder problems can be prevented by maintaining good posture, doing regular exercise and using safe lifting techniques. Shoulder problems should never be underestimated, and one should seek professional medical advice while treating these problems.