Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common but complex condition that can interfere with your routine and favorite activities. At his practice in Dallas and Grapevine, Texas, double board-certified pain management specialist Mohammed Shaikh, MD, and his team offer minimally invasive and integrative treatments for shoulder pain. With a focus on patient education and empowerment, Dr. Shaikh and his staff work closely with each person to achieve lasting results. Call today to receive treatment for shoulder pain, or make your appointment online.

What causes shoulder pain?

Your shoulder joints have three bones, three ligaments, and dozens of muscles and tendons. These tissues work together to provide your arms with a full range of motion.

Your shoulders are tough but not invincible. Trauma, general wear-and-tear, or underlying health problems can all result in pain or mobility issues.

Dr. Shaikh and his team regularly treat shoulder pain caused by:

• Repetitive use injuries
• Dislocated shoulder
• Frozen shoulder
• Pinched nerves
• Bone spurs
• Inflamed bursa sacs or tendons
• Torn rotator cuff
• Torn cartilage

Sometimes, shoulder pain occurs because of an underlying disease, such as arthritis.

Should I see a specialist about shoulder pain?

Make an appointment with Dr. Shaikh and his team if you have shoulder pain that lasts more than a few days. That’s especially true if the pain occurs alongside bruising, heat or tenderness around the joint, or difficulty lifting your arm above your head.

How is shoulder pain diagnosed?

Dr. Shaikh reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including whether the pain is sharp or dull, hurts when you’re not moving and affects one shoulder or both. 

Next, he examines the injured shoulder. He looks for redness, swelling, or bruising and gently presses on your shoulder blade and the surrounding areas to identify sensitive spots. 

Dr. Shaikh also tests your shoulder’s range of motion and orders diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, an MRI, or diagnostic injections. These procedures provide detailed pictures of your shoulder and can help guide treatment.

How is shoulder pain treated?

Treatment of your shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Dr. Shaikh develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. He may recommend:

• Immobilization with a sling or a cast
• Corticosteroid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Physical therapy
• Stretches and strengthening exercises
• Alternating ice and heat packs
• Massage
• Peripheral nerve stimulation
• Radiofrequency ablation

If your pain continues or doesn’t improve with conservative treatments, Dr. Shaikh might recommend minimally invasive surgery.

How can I reduce my risk of shoulder pain?

You can reduce your risk of shoulder pain by strengthening your muscles and rotator cuff tendons. Dr. Shaikh and his team can recommend exercises to help you stay in shape and prevent injury. 

Call the office near you today to learn more about treating shoulder pain, or book your appointment online.