As an orthopaedic specialist, It is common to encounter patients who present with persistent shoulder pain that they have been ignoring for weeks or even months. They commonly assume that it is just part and parcel of ageing or something that will eventually go away on its own. However, chronic shoulder pain should ideally not be ignored, especially in older patients. Seeking medical attention is crucial in properly diagnosing and treating the underlying cause.

Introduction

Broadly, chronic shoulder pain refers to any type of persistent discomfort or aches in the shoulder joint that lasts for more than six weeks. It can vary in severity, ranging from mild irritation to intense pain that greatly affects daily activities. Unfortunately, many people tend to ignore their chronic shoulder pain until it becomes unbearable, potentially resulting in further damage and a longer recovery time. In this article, we will discuss the red flags that indicate when it’s time to see a doctor for chronic shoulder pain.

Identifying the Symptoms of Chronic Shoulder Pain

The first step in addressing chronic shoulder pain is to understand its symptoms. Here are some common signs that you may be experiencing chronic shoulder pain:

• Pain in the shoulder joint that persists for more than six weeks, despite rest and home treatments.
• Difficulty moving or using your arm because of pain, which may also limit your range of motion.
• Stiffness in the shoulder joint, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks such as getting dressed or reaching for items.
• Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the shoulder area, which can indicate inflammation and other underlying issues.
• Some potentially worrisome symptoms include: Associated loss of weight and appetite, Fever, Pain that does not reduce in intensity or disappear briefly at any point during the day, Pain in multiple additional joints.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms for an extended period of time, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Understanding the Underlying Causes of Chronic Shoulder Pain

There are various potential causes of chronic shoulder pain. As an orthopaedic specialist, I have encountered many patients with different underlying issues. Some possible causes include:

• Rotator cuff injuries, which can result from degeneration, overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden trauma.
• Shoulder instability from previous trauma
• Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that often affects older adults and can cause chronic shoulder pain.
• Bursitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs in the shoulder joint.
• Tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder that can occur because of repetitive movements or aging.
• Missed fractures from previous trauma
• Less commonly- Infection or Metastasis from cancer growing in another region of the body

Understanding the underlying cause of your chronic shoulder pain is crucial in determining the best course of treatment.

Red Flags to Watch For When Experiencing Chronic Shoulder Pain

While most cases of chronic shoulder pain can be managed with rest and home treatments, certain red flags should not be ignored. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately:

• Sudden onset of persistent intense pain in your shoulder that doesn’t subside even after a few days.
• Pain that disrupts your sleep or daily activities, making it challenging to perform even simple tasks.
• Numbness or tingling in your arm or hand, which can indicate nerve damage or compression.
• Weakness in the shoulder or arm, making it difficult to lift objects or perform certain movements.
• Fever, chills, or signs of infection, which may indicate a more serious underlying issue such as septic arthritis.
• Associated loss of weight and appetite that may indicate a systemic association 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

When Should You See a Specialist for Chronic Shoulder Pain?

While most cases of chronic shoulder pain can be managed with rest and home treatments, there are certain situations where seeking treatment from a specialist is necessary.

If you suspect a fracture or experience the ‘Red Flag’ symptoms above, seek medical treatment with an orthopaedic specialist early. If the pain symptoms are mild but persist for a few weeks despite initial self management, it’s prudent to schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist for a detailed review. They can conduct a thorough physical examination and order imaging tests to determine the underlying cause of your chronic shoulder pain.

Treatment Options for Chronic Shoulder Pain

The treatment for chronic shoulder pain will depend on the underlying cause. In mild cases, rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication may be sufficient to provide relief. However, more severe cases may require physical therapy, steroid injections, or even surgery. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend follow-up appointments to ensure a proper recovery.

Prevention is Key

While some causes of chronic shoulder pain cannot be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintaining good posture and ergonomics in daily activities such as sitting at a desk or lifting objects can help prevent injuries. Being aware of one’s surroundings helps reduce the incidences of falls. Do proper warm up before strenuous activities and adopt a measured approach when participating in sporting activities.  Additionally, incorporating regular exercise that targets the muscles surrounding your shoulder joint can help strengthen and protect it from injury.

Conclusion

You should never ignore chronic shoulder pain. It’s important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if they persist for more than six weeks or if you experience any red flags symptoms. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can lead to a faster recovery and better outcomes in the long run.

Take care of your shoulder joint and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Your health and well-being should always be a top priority. We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on chronic shoulder pain and its red flags. Remember to always consult with a medical professional for personalised advice and treatment options specific to your condition.