Meet With an Orthopedic Doctor in St. John, Crown Point & Lowell, IN
Shoulder Conditions & Available Treatment Options
Shoulder pain can make daily life more challenging, whether it’s reaching for something on a shelf, carrying groceries, or participating in your favorite sport. If you’ve been dealing with discomfort or limited movement in your shoulder, it’s important to seek out the care and expertise of an orthopedic doctor.
Great Lakes Orthopedics has been serving Northwest Indiana since 2000. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care that gets you back to doing what you love. Whether your shoulder pain is from an injury, overuse, or an underlying condition, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward relief, schedule an appointment with our orthopedic shoulder specialists today. We’re here to listen to your concerns, assess your condition, and create a personalized treatment plan just for you.
Surgery, Medications & Physical Therapy for Shoulder Injuries & Conditions
What Causes Shoulder Pain & What Can Be Done?
Shoulder pain can happen for many reasons, from an injury to everyday wear and tear. Some of the most common shoulder pain causes include:
- Rotator Cuff Tears: A tear in the group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, often caused by repetitive motion or a traumatic injury.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often developing gradually over time. It is commonly associated with prolonged inactivity or certain medical conditions like diabetes.
- Shoulder Impingement: Occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become compressed or irritated during arm movement, typically caused by repetitive overhead activity.
- Dislocated Shoulder: When the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, often due to a trauma or fall.
- Tendinitis: An inflammation or irritation of the tendons around the shoulder, frequently resulting from overuse or repetitive stress.
- Labral Tears: A tear in the cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket, which helps stabilize the joint. This injury can result from a traumatic incident or repetitive motions.
- Arthritis: A degenerative condition that causes swelling, pain, and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Osteoarthritis is the most common type, typically resulting from wear and tear over time.
These conditions can lead to shoulder pain symptoms like limited range of motion, swelling, or sharp pain with specific movements. Without proper care, symptoms can worsen, making everyday tasks more difficult.
At Great Lakes Orthopedics, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your specific needs. After a thorough evaluation, we’ll recommend a plan designed to reduce your pain and restore function. Some of the treatments we provide include:
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises can relieve pain in the shoulder and improve its mobility without surgery.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and provide short-term relief. Or, if you have arthritis, gel injections may be recommended to help lubricate and cushion the joint.
- Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures allow us to treat problems like rotator cuff tears or impingements with less downtime and quicker recovery. For severe cases of arthritis, shoulder joint replacement surgery may be recommended
Regardless of your condition, our team is committed to finding the best solution to help you regain full use of your shoulder as quickly and safely as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common shoulder pain symptoms to watch for?
Shoulder pain can show up in many ways, including stiffness, sharp pain with movement, or a sense of weakness in the joint. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and they’re interfering with your daily life, it’s time to see a specialist at Great Lakes Orthopedics.
When should I see an orthopedic shoulder specialist?
Common signs that it’s time to reach out for professional help include:
- If the pain doesn’t improve with rest
- If the pain limits your ability to move your arm
- If the pain is accompanied by swelling or a popping sensation.
Early treatment can help prevent long-term damage.
Is physical therapy effective for shoulder pain?
Yes! Physical therapy is often a key part of treatment for a variety of shoulder injuries and conditions. It can help strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain without the need for surgery. Or, if surgery is needed, physical therapy can help you recover faster and more confidently.
How can I schedule shoulder pain treatment near me?
Scheduling an appointment with Great Lakes Orthopedics is easy. You can call our office or book online at your convenience. Our team is here to help you feel better, and we look forward to working with you!