Shoulder

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain Treatment in Chennai

Common symptoms associated with shoulder pain include:

• Sharp or aching pain in the shoulder joint.
• Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to lift or move the arm.
• Swelling or stiffness around the shoulder.
• Weakness in the muscles surrounding the joint.
• Popping or clicking sounds during shoulder movements.

Shoulder pain in Chennai is often caused by rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, tendonitis, or even shoulder dislocations. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you seek timely treatment.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Understanding the cause of your shoulder pain can help determine the best treatment. Some common causes include:

• Injuries: Sprains, strains, or fractures due to accidents or sports activities.
• Overuse: Repeated movements, especially in sports or certain jobs, can lead to tendinitis or bursitis.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis causing joint pain and stiffness.
• Rotator Cuff Tears: Damage to the group of muscles and tendons stabilizing the shoulder.
• Frozen Shoulder: Stiffening of the shoulder joint leading to pain and restricted movement.

Less Common Causes

• Infections: Rare, but infections can cause shoulder pain.
• Nerve Problems: Conditions like a pinched nerve in the neck can radiate pain to the shoulder.
• Tumors: Rarely, tumors in or around the shoulder can cause pain.

How Shoulder Pain is Diagnosed

Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Here’s how shoulder pain is typically diagnosed:

• Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, any injuries, and your medical history.
• Physical Examination: Assessing your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and areas of tenderness.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to view the bones and soft tissues in your shoulder.
• Lab Tests: Blood tests to check for underlying conditions like arthritis or infection.

Specialist Consultation

In some cases, your primary doctor may refer you to an orthopedic specialist for further evaluation and treatment. Shoulder pain treatment in Chennai often involves consultations with top specialists to ensure a comprehensive approach to your care.

When dealing with shoulder pain, various treatment approaches can be considered based on the severity of the condition, patient history, and the underlying cause. Below are the most effective treatment options for shoulder pain in Chennai:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

For mild to moderate shoulder pain, non-surgical options are often the first line of treatment:

• Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises strengthen shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and restore motion.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections are effective in reducing pain and swelling.
• Hot and Cold Therapy: Alternating between hot and cold compresses can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Adjusting daily routines and avoiding overuse of the shoulder can help prevent further strain.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

When conservative methods do not provide relief, minimally invasive procedures are considered:

• Arthroscopy: A keyhole procedure used to repair damaged tissues or remove bone spurs.
• Hydrodilatation: This involves injecting fluid into the joint to stretch tight capsule tissues, commonly used for frozen shoulder.

3. Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Chennai

For severe cases, such as advanced arthritis or irreparable damage to the shoulder joint, shoulder replacement surgery in Chennai is a highly effective option. This involves replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant. Types of shoulder replacement surgeries include:

• Total Shoulder Replacement: Replacement of both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint.
• Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Replacement of only the ball of the shoulder joint.
• Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Recommended for patients with severe rotator cuff damage, this surgery reverses the natural ball-and-socket alignment for improved mobility.

The advanced healthcare facilities in Chennai ensure state-of-the-art technology and experienced surgeons for these procedures, enhancing patient outcomes.

Signs You Need Professional Help

Knowing when to seek medical attention can prevent further complications. Contact a doctor if you experience:

• Severe Pain: Intense pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relief.
• Sudden Swelling: Unexpected swelling or redness around the shoulder joint.
• Inability to Use the Shoulder: Complete inability to move the shoulder or arm.
• Deformity: Visible changes in the shape or structure of the shoulder.
• Persistent Pain: Pain that lasts more than a few days without improvement.

Emergency Situations

Seek immediate medical attention if shoulder pain is accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a sudden injury. Immediate intervention is crucial in such cases to prevent long-term damage.