Experiencing ongoing shoulder pain? Reach out to Sydney Pain Clinic to uncover the root cause of your discomfort and discuss tailored treatment options.

What are the Risk Factors for Chronic Shoulder Pain?

Chronic shoulder pain can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Understanding these risk factors can help in early identification and prevention:

• Age: Individuals over the age of 60 are more susceptible to shoulder pain due to the natural wear and tear of the shoulder joint.
• Occupation: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements or overhead work can increase the risk of shoulder injuries and pain.
• Sports Participation: Athletes, especially those involved in sports that require repetitive arm movements like swimming, tennis, and baseball, are at higher risk of shoulder problems.
• Previous Injuries: A history of shoulder injuries can predispose an individual to chronic shoulder pain due to potential residual weakness or improper healing.
• Lifestyle Factors: Lack of exercise or poor posture can contribute to shoulder pain. Regular physical activity and maintaining good posture can mitigate this risk.
• Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to certain conditions that affect the shoulder, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Identifying and addressing these risk factors early can play a crucial role in preventing chronic shoulder pain or managing it more effectively.

Concerned about your risk of developing chronic shoulder pain? Book an appointment with Sydney Pain Clinic to discuss preventative strategies and ensure your shoulders remain healthy and strong.

What are the Symptoms of Chronic Shoulder Pain?

The symptoms of chronic shoulder pain can vary widely depending on the underlying cause but typically include:

• Persistent Pain: A continuous ache or discomfort in the shoulder that may worsen with movement or during the night.
• Reduced Mobility: Difficulty in moving the shoulder through its full range of motion, potentially affecting daily activities such as dressing or reaching overhead.
• Stiffness: The shoulder may feel tight and restricting, especially after periods of inactivity.
• Weakness: A noticeable decline in shoulder strength, making it challenging to carry objects or perform tasks that require arm strength.
• Swelling and Tenderness: The shoulder area may appear swollen or feel tender to the touch.
• Clicking or Grinding Noises: Sounds may be heard when moving the shoulder, indicating potential issues with the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues.

Experiencing these symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain or any of these symptoms, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact Sydney Pain Clinic for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan to get back to your pain-free life.

Diagnosis for Chronic Shoulder Pain Management

Diagnosing chronic shoulder pain involves a comprehensive approach to understand the cause and extent of the condition. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

• Medical History: A detailed discussion about the symptoms, any previous injuries, lifestyle, and activities that may contribute to the pain.
• Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the shoulder for tenderness, swelling, and assess the range of motion and strength. This may involve comparing the affected shoulder with the unaffected one.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays can reveal bone-related issues, while MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans are useful for visualizing soft tissues like tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Ultrasound may also be used for a dynamic assessment of the shoulder during movement.
• Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, further tests like arthroscopy (a surgical procedure used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint) or nerve conduction studies may be recommended to pinpoint the diagnosis.

This thorough diagnostic process ensures a targeted treatment plan that addresses the specific causes of chronic shoulder pain.

Concerned about persistent shoulder pain? Sydney Pain Clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to help identify the root cause of your discomfort. Book your consultation today to start your journey towards recovery.

Are There Any Minimally Invasive Treatment for Chronic Shoulder Pain?

Minimally invasive treatments offer effective pain relief and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery. For chronic shoulder pain, several options can provide significant improvement: