Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit physical therapy and orthopedic clinics. While it can stem from various injuries, persistent stiffness and discomfort often point to specific underlying conditions. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we help patients understand their diagnosis and get back to doing what they love.
Here are four common causes of shoulder pain and some of the treatment options available.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder occurs when the tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become thickened and tight. This can lead to a significant decrease in mobility and can cause a sensation of the joint “locking up.” Treatment typically involves gentle stretching exercises and physical therapy. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Shoulder Arthritis
As we age, the cartilage in our joints can wear down, leading to arthritis. In milder cases, conservative treatments are often effective at managing symptoms. These include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle modifications to reduce joint stress.
For more advanced cases, other options may be considered. The injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has shown promise in healing soft-tissue injuries and can help slow down the progression of arthritis by protecting the cartilage still there. Another alternative is the use of hyaluronic acid injections, which are commonly used to treat knee arthritis.
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be necessary. These may include arthroscopic procedures to remove damaged tissue or repair the joint, as well as joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) to replace the damaged joint with an artificial implant.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is a frequent diagnosis in physical therapy clinics. It occurs when the rotator cuff tendons press against the coracoacromial arch (the bony structure of the shoulder). While some compression is normal, impingement happens when these forces cause too much contact during movement. This often results in pain when reaching overhead or lying on the affected side, along with changes in the motion of the shoulder.
Common causes of impingement include repetitive overhead movements, compression to the shoulder from a fall or other trauma, osteoarthritis, weakness, and poor posture. This can cause shoulder stiffness, though it is usually felt as a limitation of movement rather than a total lock-up of the joint.
Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Disorders of the rotator cuff and the tissues around it are the leading cause of shoulder pain in individuals over 40. Rotator cuff tendinopathy occurs when a shoulder tendon (a bundle of fibers connecting muscle to bone) is irritated and becomes sore. With continued irritation, the tendon can begin to break down, causing tendinosis—a more chronic condition.
People who perform repetitive or overhead arm movements, such as weightlifters, athletes, and manual laborers, are most at risk for developing rotator cuff tendinopathy. Poor posture can also contribute to its development.
Don’t let shoulder pain and stiffness dictate your daily life. Whether you need physical therapy, medical management, or a surgical opinion, our fellowship-trained shoulder specialists and expert care team are here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to the activities you enjoy.
Schedule an Appointment with Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or an injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Our expert team at Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 919-781-5600 to be seen—often within 48 hours. For immediate care, we offer walk-in orthopedic urgent care services. Click here for hours and locations.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical judgment. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment.