Should I be seen for my shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can linger and range from persistent to excruciating pain. In this article, we’ll go over shoulder pain signs and symptoms and when you should make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon.

If you are experiencing the following and want to research how to choose the best shoulder surgeon, check out this article here.

Signs and Symptoms that Warrant an Appointment with an Orthopaedic Surgeon

Persistent Pain – Persistent pain lasts for weeks or months and does not get better with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. It may gradually worsen, affecting daily activities and reducing overall mobility. Worsening or persistent pain could indicate an underlying issue requiring an orthopedic surgeon’s medical evaluation.

Limited Range of Motion – Limited range of motion refers to difficulty moving your shoulder or lifting your arm. You may struggle with tasks like reaching overhead, putting on a shirt, or curling your hair. This stiffness or restriction could indicate an injury, inflammation, or a degenerative condition that needs medical attention from an orthopaedic surgeon.

Weakness or Instability – Weakness or instability is a sign that you should be seen by an orthopedic surgeon, especially if you experience the feeling that your shoulder might “give out.” These symptoms could indicate a torn rotator cuff, ligament damage, or shoulder joint instability. You may notice difficulty lifting objects, pushing, or pulling, even with light resistance. Ignoring the issues of weakness or instability can lead to additional damage, increasing the risk of dislocation or long-term joint problems. You should seek an evaluation from an experienced orthopaedic surgeon to help prevent worsening symptoms and improve shoulder function through proper treatment.

Pain at Night – Discomfort or pain at night can disrupt sleep, especially when lying on the affected side. This symptom may be a sign of an underlying issue that could be resolved by surgery or treatment. If ignored, discomfort or pain can worsen, delaying healing. This symptom is one that a knowledgeable orthopaedic surgeon should examine.

Swelling or Deformity – Visible swelling, bruising, or an abnormal shape of the shoulder could be an indication of an underlying injury or issue. These symptoms may result from fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue damage such as a torn tendon. Seek treatment from an orthopaedic surgeon to avoid future damage, chronic pain, instability, and possibly loss of function. An orthopaedic surgeon can assess your shoulder to determine the severity of the injury and provide a treatment plan.

Clicking or Popping Sounds – Click or popping sounds when moving your shoulder is not typical. Sounds accompanied by pain can occur when an injury or shoulder issue is present. Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with an experienced orthopedic doctor. He/she can determine the cause and provide treatment options.

Injury or Trauma – This may be one of the most obvious signals that something is wrong. If you experience a fall, direct impact, or sudden injury that causes immediate pain or dysfunction in your shoulder, you should make an appointment to be evaluated. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to worsening damage, prolonged pain, or even permanent mobility issues. Seeking prompt medical attention can help diagnose the problem early and provide the best treatment options for a full recovery.

Contact Dr. Schmidt

If you are experiencing any of the shoulder pain signs and symptoms discussed in this article, you may need to schedule an appointment. Dr. Schmidt, a highly respected shoulder surgeon, is known for his exceptional skill and patient-centered care. Recognized as one of the leading shoulder specialists in the United States, he is dedicated to delivering outstanding orthopaedic treatment.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Schmidt at one of his convenient locations in the greater Pittsburgh, PA, area, call us at (877) 471-0935.