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5 Medical Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

by Stephen Silva

Shoulder pain can be quite debilitating, affecting everything from your ability to work to your daily tasks. If you're experiencing shoulder pain, it's essential to seek out proper medical care to avoid further injury or long-term complications. There are many medical treatment options available to help alleviate shoulder pain, so you have various options to try out. Read on for five of the most popular medical treatment options for shoulder pain.

Physical Therapy

One of the most frequently recommended treatments for shoulder pain is physical therapy. A skilled and experienced physical therapist can play a vital role in providing effective pain relief, as well as in enhancing the strength and mobility of your shoulder. Through a personalized treatment plan, they may utilize a wide range of exercises, stretches, and specialized techniques tailored to address your specific shoulder condition. By closely working with a physical therapist, you can gradually improve your shoulder's condition, allowing you to regain functionality and comfort in your daily life.

Medications

When it comes to shoulder pain, there are several commonly prescribed treatment options that can provide relief. Pain medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, can help manage the discomfort while giving the underlying injury time to heal. Additionally, muscle relaxers can also ease muscle tension and promote relaxation in the affected area, further aiding in the recovery process. By incorporating these medications into a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals can find effective ways to address shoulder pain and facilitate the healing journey.

Steroid Injections

If the shoulder pain is severe and doesn't respond to other treatments, a doctor may prescribe a steroid injection. This injection delivers medication directly into the shoulder joint, reducing inflammation and relieving pain.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying issue causing shoulder pain. This option is typically reserved for severe or chronic shoulder pain cases where other treatment options have failed. The type of surgery necessary varies depending on the underlying issue.

Rest and Ice

Injuries caused by overuse or strain may simply require rest and icing of the shoulder. Placing ice on your shoulder can help reduce inflammation and allow the injury to heal. Of course, it's essential to seek medical attention before assuming rest and ice will be sufficient.

Shoulder pain can take a significant toll on your daily life, but there are many medical treatment options available to help manage and even eliminate the pain. Whether it be physical therapy, medications, steroid injections, surgery, or rest and ice, seeking medical attention is essential to a full recovery and avoiding further injury or long-term complications. For more information about shoulder pain treatment, contact a physical therapist in your area.

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