The shoulder, which is the body’s most mobile joint, helps lift and raise the arm. On a daily basis, people use their shoulder hundreds of times. Because the shoulder is so important in day-to-day life, an injury to it can be extremely aggravating and annoying. Patients who injure their shoulder may be limited in what they can do and be in pain.

The expert orthopedic specialists at Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine focus on both the surgical and non-surgical treatment of shoulder injuries and are one of the most innovative orthopedic practices in the area.  Patients who are dealing with chronic shoulder pain can contact one of our 5 offices throughout Long Island, Brooklyn and the Bronx.

Some key signs that shoulder pain should be seen by an orthopedic specialist include the following:

1. Shoulder pain that does not go away on its own

When shoulder pain presents and then quickly goes away after a few days, it probably is not something to worry about. When shoulder pain lingers on for an extended period of time and/or increases in severity, it should be seen by one of our orthopedic specialists. An injury that requires medical treatment is probably causing the pain.

2. Shoulder pain occurs because of a dislocation

The shoulder is a ball and socket joint made up of the head of the humerus and the glenoid cavity of the scapula. A partial shoulder dislocation or shoulder subluxation occurs when the head of the humerus partially slips out of the glenoid cavity. A complete dislocation occurs when the head completely slips (and usually remains) out of the cavity. In many cases, a shoulder that has been dislocated needs to be relocated or put back in place by an orthopedic specialist. A tear in the glenoid labrum, a rim of soft tissue that holds the ball in the cavity, or rotator cuff tendon tear may be associated with a shoulder dislocation. Both of these injuries need to be treated by an orthopedic specialist.

3. Shoulder pain limits participation in physical activities or sports

Active individuals and athletes who cannot participate in the activities or sports they love should see an orthopedic specialist. The cause of the pain and extent of the injury will be accurately diagnosed and effectively treated so they can recover in an appropriate amount of time. The field of sports medicine is more advanced than ever. Numerous nonsurgical and surgical treatment options are now available.

4. Shoulder pain is associated with internal and external rotation movements

Internal (towards the body) and external (away from the body) movements are controlled by the rotator cuff tendons. When these movements cause pain or when these movements can not be performed, an orthopedic specialist should be seen. A rotator cuff strain or tear may be causing the pain.

Seeking Treatment for Shoulder Pain at Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Patients whose symptoms match one or more of the symptoms above should contact one of our 5 offices located throughout Long Island, Brooklyn and the Bronx to schedule a consultation with one of our awarded shoulder specialists. Once your condition is diagnosed, a treatment plan to help get rid of your pain will be prescribed. You can expect results when you choose Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.