15 January 2018,
 0

which doctor to see for shoulder pain

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, you may be wondering what could be causing it. You may also be wondering which doctor to see for shoulder pain. Painful shoulder conditions can result from sports injury, overuse of the joint or an injury sustained while doing an everyday activity such as cleaning. Identifying your symptoms can help you determine what condition may be the source of your shoulder pain.

Shoulder Symptoms

Here are some common shoulder conditions and the symptoms that generally accompany each:

  • – Rotator cuff tearsThe rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles in the shoulder that can tear suddenly or over time. Typically, patients with a torn rotator cuff have pain and/or weakness in their shoulder. They may also have a popping or clicking sensation when they move their arm and difficulty lifting items as normal.
  • – Labrum tears – The labrum is responsible for stabilizing the shoulder. When this piece of tissue is torn, the shoulder may be partially or completely dislocated. This can lead to pain and aching, a feeling of looseness in the shoulder and/or a popping, clicking or catching feeling in the shoulder with movement.
  • – Frozen shoulder – This condition develops when the connective tissue that lines the shoulder joint becomes thickened and inflamed. During the first stage of the condition, the “freezing stage,” movement becomes painful. Then, during the “frozen stage,” the sufferer experiences less pain but more stiffness, making it difficult to move the shoulder. Finally, the shoulder “thaws” and the stiffness resolves, making motion less painful.
  • – Bursitis – Bursitis occurs due to inflammation in the bursa, or the thin, fluid-filled sacs which cushion the tendons, bones and muscles in the shoulder joint. The primary symptom of this condition is a dull ache. The ache gets worse when the arm is raised or moved away from the body.

 

Which Doctor to See for Shoulder Pain

If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of a shoulder injury, you’ll need to decide which doctor to see for shoulder pain. No matter the source of your shoulder pain, seeing an experienced orthopedic doctor as soon as possible is beneficial to prevent the issue from becoming more severe. Equipped with extensive knowledge regarding musculoskeletal issues, this type of medical professional will be able to diagnose your shoulder condition and advise you on the best course of treatment based on your symptoms. The doctor will most likely try treating your shoulder condition with more conservative methods, such as physical therapy and/or medication, before moving onto operative procedures.

See Dr. Soffer for The Best in Shoulder Care

If you are having lingering shoulder discomfort and need to select which doctor to see for shoulder pain, Dr. Stephen R. Soffer is a highly qualified choice. Known as an orthopedic surgeon Lancaster, PA residents can count on, Dr. Soffer holds certification from the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. Furthermore, he offers all of the most advanced non-operative and operative orthopedic procedures available. This makes him a cutting-edge choice for your care.

Ready to seek expert medical advice from Dr. Soffer regarding your shoulder pain? Schedule an appointment today by calling our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to making your acquaintance.


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