[55F] Experiencing shoulder pain with limited mobility
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, you may be experiencing one of the following conditions:
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Rotator Cuff Injury: This is a common cause of shoulder pain, especially in those who perform repetitive overhead activities. It involves damage to the muscles and tendons that help move your shoulder joint. If you have a rotator cuff injury, you may experience a dull ache deep in the shoulder, difficulty raising your arm, and arm weakness.
- Treatment usually involves rest, physical therapy, and possibly surgery.
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Frozen Shoulder: This condition restricts your movement due to pain and stiffness in the shoulder. It typically begins gradually, worsens over time and then resolves, usually within a two-year period.
- Treatment involves range-of-motion exercises and, sometimes, corticosteroids and numbing medications injected into the joint capsule.
-
Bursitis: This is inflammation or irritation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in your joints. Bursitis can cause pain and limit the range of motion of your shoulder.
- Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
What you can do
You should see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, you can try the following to alleviate your symptoms:
- Rest your shoulder and avoid activities that cause pain.
- Apply ice to your shoulder for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
What you should look out for
You should seek immediate medical attention if:
- The pain is intense and sudden
- You have difficulty breathing or chest tightness
- You have difficulty moving your arm
- The area around your shoulder is swollen or visibly deformed
Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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10 mo ago