Daily Dose: Understanding shoulder pain

Shoulder pain is a common issue, and one of the most frequent culprits is tendinitis, which is an inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder. According to medical professionals, tendinitis often results from overuse of the shoulder, particularly during activities that involve repetitive motion.

Dr. Lacy Anderson says that shoulder tendinitis typically causes pain when raising your arm or moving it in certain directions. It’s especially common in people who have recently increased their physical activity, such as weightlifting or doing home improvement tasks like painting or trimming trees.

Fortunately, tendinitis often improves with simple treatment. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce swelling and pain.

Dr. Anderson says that If pain persists after using anti-inflammatories, it’s a good idea to consult a physician. Doctors may recommend a short course of oral steroids or administer a steroid injection directly into the joint for relief.

If symptoms still don’t improve, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be necessary to look for more serious issues like a torn rotator cuff or a labral tear. While many soft tissue injuries can be managed with time and physical therapy, more severe damage could require surgical intervention.

In sum, most shoulder pain starts with minor inflammation but can progress if left untreated. Early management and proper care are key to avoiding long-term issues.

Dr. Anderson advises viewers not to ignore persistent pain because it’s your body telling you it needs a break.