• July 4, 2022

3 Signs That Your Shoulder Pain Isn’t Temporary

According to research, 18%–26% of adults experience shoulder pain at some point during their lifetime. In some cases, mild shoulder pain goes away on its own. However, moderate to severe shoulder pain can develop into a serious condition that gets worse if left untreated.

We strongly recommend visiting an orthopedic doctor within the first few days of developing shoulder pain. If you’ve developed a serious condition, it must be treated promptly.

When diagnosis and treatment are delayed, the delicate structures in the shoulders begin to weaken. Over time, the pain can affect your range of motion and flexibility, making routine tasks more difficult. Your eroded independence can also lead to psychological pain.

This blog will discuss three signs that your shoulder pain isn’t temporary.

1. Sharp, Crushing Pain

The severity of the pain will help you understand whether it’s temporary. Remember, this is only an indication, not a diagnosis. You’ll simply get an idea of your condition. For a more accurate diagnosis, visit an orthopedic doctor.

If you experience dull pain, your condition may be temporary, but a sharp, crushing pain could indicate a serious injury. That’s when you know it’s time to see a doctor.

2. Reduced Range of MotionFlight attendant using her shoulder to lift a suitcase.

Is your shoulder pain affecting your mobility? Temporary pain is more like discomfort. It doesn’t restrict people from performing routine tasks. If you’re struggling to perform chores that require basic arm use, your condition may be more serious.

Many people experience some pain when lifting objects, driving, raising their arms, and so on. If these movements trigger sharp pain, there’s a high chance that your condition isn’t temporary.

3. Feeling Weak and Tired

Have you been feeling fatigued lately? Serious joint pain often makes people feel tired. As stress is placed on your shoulder joints and muscles, you can feel worn out. Many serious shoulder conditions make people feel lethargic. These include (but are not limited to) osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, and adhesive capsulitis.

At TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital, we diagnose and treat patients across Houston, Texas, who are suffering from shoulder pain. It’s possible that you’re experiencing mild shoulder pain that can be treated using nonsurgical therapies. However, it’s also possible that you’ve developed a serious condition that requires surgical intervention.

Click here to find an orthopedic shoulder specialist near you. We also provide pain management treatment, hip replacement surgery plans, sports injury treatment, breast screening, colonoscopy, and breast cancer treatment, among a wide range of other services.

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