This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
Understanding Shoulder Pain ¶
Shoulder pain is a common symptom that affects people of all ages, but it is predominantly found in individuals over 50 years old. According to Dr. Mukuhi Ng'ang'a, a leading expert in the field, shoulder pain is not exclusive to athletes or individuals who engage in demanding manual labor.
The shoulder is a complex joint made up of three bones - the humerus, collarbone, and shoulder blade - linked together by muscles and tendons. Any damage to these structures can lead to pain and discomfort.
There are several possible causes of shoulder pain, including arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and dislocations. Arthritis is a form of joint disease that causes the protective lining of the bone to wear down, leading to pain and stiffness. Tendinitis and bursitis occur when the tendons and muscles around the shoulder become inflamed or torn, causing pain and limited mobility.
Dislocations occur when the arm bone slips out of place, causing severe pain and inability to use the shoulder. Fractures, on the other hand, occur when one of the three bones that form the shoulder joint is broken, leading to pain, swelling, deformity, and bruising.
Other possible causes of shoulder pain include infections, such as septic arthritis, and referred pain from other parts of the body, such as the heart, liver, gallbladder, and neck.
Diagnosing the cause of shoulder pain typically involves a review of symptoms and a thorough physical examination. In some cases, tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, and special tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause and may include rest, physical therapy, exercise, medication, or surgery. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be necessary to manage the condition effectively.
According to Dr. Ng'ang'a, the best management of shoulder pain is determined by its cause. For example, if the pain is caused by a fracture or dislocation, rest is usually recommended. However, if the pain is caused by arthritis, resting the shoulder may lead to worsening of the stiffness and tightening of the joint, and motion is necessary to improve function.
Physiotherapy and exercise can help reduce stress on the shoulder joint and improve its stability, while medications can help reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn tissues, remove scar tissue, fix fractures, or replace the shoulder joint.
It is essential to seek medical attention if shoulder pain persists or worsens over time. A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of the pain and develop an effective treatment plan to manage the condition.
