Shoulder pain is a common complaint, but it can be difficult to determine if the pain is serious or not. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of serious shoulder pain and how to tell if it is something that requires medical attention.
Signs and Symptoms of Serious Shoulder Pain
The most common symptom of serious shoulder pain is a sharp, stabbing sensation that radiates down the arm. Other signs and symptoms include swelling, redness, tenderness to touch, difficulty moving the arm, and a decrease in range of motion. If you experience any of these symptoms along with your shoulder pain, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Diagnosing Serious Shoulder Pain
If you are experiencing shoulder pain that you believe may be serious, it is important to get it checked out by a doctor. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history in order to determine the cause of your shoulder pain. They may also order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI scan in order to get a better look at what is going on inside your shoulder joint.
Treatment for Serious Shoulder Pain
The treatment for serious shoulder pain will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, rest and physical therapy may be enough to relieve the pain and improve range of motion. However, if there is an underlying condition such as arthritis or rotator cuff tear, other precautions may be necessary in order to repair the damage and relieve the pain.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms mentioned above along with your shoulder pain, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to prevent further injury or damage. Additionally, if you have been dealing with chronic shoulder pain for more than two weeks without any relief from rest or over-the-counter medications, it’s best to see a doctor right away in order to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.