You never really know the value and use of certain muscles and joints until you can no longer use them comfortably. This is certainly true for your shoulders. While shoulder pain can happen for numerous reasons and vary in degree, it is important to know the difference between just being sore from overuse and something more serious requiring medical attention.
So, how do you know if your pain is worth a trip to the doctor’s office and requires shoulder pain treatment in Clinton Township?
To start, if your shoulder has popped out of place, especially during a trauma, this would immediately require medical attention. Important ligaments could be torn that would compromise the stability of your shoulder.
Do you hear or feel a popping or clicking sensation? In certain cases, this could indicate a labral tear, which may require surgery to fix. Not all clicking or popping is the same, so it is important to get properly evaluated.
Are you able to lift your arm relatively pain free? If the pain is intolerable to the point where you cannot perform everyday tasks, it is time to see a medical professional. It is possible that that you could have a rotator cuff injury or tear, which most often requires surgery.
Is your pain a result of a trauma from a sports injury, accident, or fall? You should always be evaluated after any trauma. The seemingly insignificant pain you have now could truly be something small, but when left untreated can turn into something more serious.
Track your pain. If your pain is not from a trauma but seems to be from overuse or age, it is important to note any changes in severity of pain or range of motion. If the pain is getting increasingly worse and you are unable to comfortably do everyday tasks, you could be developing arthritis. Seeking medical help for diagnosis and treatment of arthritis can help slow the progression of the disease.
Lastly, if you just simply aren’t sure, seek professional medical advice anyway. Even if your pain is not serious now, it can lead to something more serious if you let the condition worsen or for the pain to continue for too long.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain, Movement Orthopedics is here to help. A leader in orthopedic and sports medicine, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Carroll has extensive experience diagnosing and treating painful shoulder conditions such as rotator cuff tears and arthritis.
We offer many on-site conveniences including urgent care with extended hours and orthopedic urgent care in Clinton Township. Let Dr. Carroll treat your shoulder pain and restore your quality of life. Call (586) 436-3785 or request an appointment online today.
