What Are Shoulder Diseases?
Persistent shoulder pain may be a sign of various shoulder conditions. If the pain is accompanied by restricted shoulder movement, it is essential to consult a specialist orthopedic doctor. Frozen shoulder is characterized by pain and limited movement due to insufficient mobility of the joint. Shoulder pain that develops after falls, trauma, or sports injuries should also be carefully evaluated.
What Causes Shoulder Diseases?
Shoulder diseases usually occur as a result of trauma. For example, reaching for an object from a high place, using a computer in the wrong position for long periods, driving, or lifting heavy loads can strain the shoulder. Common causes also include shoulder fractures or dislocations after a fall, immobility, and pain following sports or exercise.
Postoperative Process
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
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Muscle injuries and tears
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Bursitis and tendinitis
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Joint movement restriction (frozen shoulder)
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Rheumatic diseases
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Liver and gallbladder diseases
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Nerve compressions and cervical hernias
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Fractures and dislocations
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Shoulder osteoarthritis
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Lung tumors or infections
Postoperative Process:
Impingement Syndrome
It occurs when the muscles, tendons, and bursae in the shoulder become compressed between the bony structures. It is more commonly seen in athletes such as swimmers and volleyball players, as well as in housewives. It develops as a result of overuse or improper use of the shoulder. If left untreated, the risk of tendon tears increases.
Shoulder Osteoarthritis
After knee and hip osteoarthritis, the shoulder is the most commonly affected joint. The shoulder joint is located between the humerus and the scapula. As the cartilage tissue wears down, pain and restricted movement develop during activity.
Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder syndrome is characterized by persistent shoulder pain and restricted movement. It is also known as “adhesive capsulitis.” It is more common in women. Patients with severe pain and loss of motion should consult an orthopedic specialist, and diagnosis should be made through physical examination and imaging methods.
Treatment of Shoulder Pain
Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Muscle and soft tissue tears, as well as bone-related pain, often require surgical intervention. In other cases, medication and physical therapy can help control the symptoms.
Symptoms:
Restricted Range of Motion: Limitation in the normal movement of the shoulder, especially difficulty lifting the arm upward.
Tenderness and Pain on Touch: Sensitivity and pain around the shoulder when touched.
Swelling and Stiffness: Swelling may occur in the shoulder, and joint movements can become restricted.
Numbness or Tingling: In some cases, numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation spreading to the shoulder and arm.
Muscle Weakness: Weakness or loss of strength in the muscles around the shoulder.
Deformity: Visible abnormal shape changes in the shoulder, especially after trauma.
Persistent or Recurrent Shoulder Pain: Pain that worsens with movement or continues even at rest.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- After neck and knee pain, shoulder pain is one of the most common joint complaints. Shoulder pain may originate from bones or soft tissues. To determine the exact cause of the pain, a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is necessary. An orthopedic specialist examination is essential for identifying the underlying problem.
- Frozen shoulder syndrome significantly affects the patient’s quality of life. For treatment, non-surgical methods include medications injected into the joint capsule. In some cases, arthroscopic surgery may be required to improve joint mobility.
- In mild shoulder pain, hot or cold compresses are commonly applied. However, if the pain becomes chronic, it is necessary to consult a specialist orthopedic doctor. In cases of chronic shoulder pain, if bone disorders such as fractures or dislocations are not present, medication treatment is usually applied.
- In cases of nerve compression in the arm, tingling and numbness may occur in the wrist and fingertips. As the condition progresses, twitching may develop in the arm. In cases of nerve compression in the shoulder, reflexive actions such as sneezing or coughing often lead to contractions in the shoulder muscles.
- If shoulder pain lasts for more than a few weeks, or if you experience limited mobility, swelling, or visible deformity, it is important to seek medical attention from a specialist. In particular, sudden and severe pain following an injury should never be overlooked.
- Shoulder osteoarthritis is more commonly seen in middle-aged and older individuals. Regular exercise, strengthening of the shoulder muscles, and avoiding heavy lifting are recommended as preventive measures.
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