Shoulder Pain Specialists in Austin, TX

What is Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain occurs when the muscles, tendons or ligaments in your shoulder become overused and irritated. You may experience shoulder pain as a result of injury—such as by overstretching your arm—or from repetitive use, from activities like painting, throwing a ball, or even brushing your teeth. The most common cause of shoulder pain happens when the rotator cuff tendons are trapped under the bony part of the shoulder. When this occurs the tendons experience inflammation or damage. You also may experience shoulder pain as a result of a chronic disease or age-related condition.

How does Shoulder Pain affect the body?

Shoulder pain can vary in intensity. It may be mild or severe, and it may come on gradually or suddenly. In either case, you’ll likely find it hard to move your shoulder without experiencing some degree of pain, as well as difficult if not impossible to perform basic ‘everyday’ activities such as reaching for objects, maintaining a normal posture, or sitting, lying down, or sleeping. If you’re an athlete, your shoulder pain may also adversely affect your performance.

Causes

Poor posture
Pinched nerves
Weak rotator cuff muscles
Sports-related injuries
Rotator cuff injury or impingement
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Inflammation
Sprains

Symptoms

Deep pain in the shoulder joint, in the back or the front of the shoulder or the upper part of the arm
Pain when moving your shoulder, resulting in an inability to move your arm fully
Weakness of the shoulder/upper arm
A sensation of the joint “slipping out and back in” the joint socket
“Pins and needles” sensations and/or burning pain
Lack of movement caused by pain and/or weakness in the corresponding arm

Treatments

Imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan, MRI, and more)
Non-surgical methods: Over The Counter Or Prescription Medications, Activity Modification
Joint Injections: Cortisone Injections, Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS)
Physical therapy

Treatment for Shoulder Pain in the Greater Austin Area

Shoulder pain is generally treated depending on the cause, severity, and duration of your condition. That said, multiple treatment options exist. Shoulder pain can be treated conservatively using a combination of methods, including over-the-counter or prescription medication, activity modification and/or physical therapy, or joint injections such as cortisone injections or PRP therapy. Surgery may also be recommended depending on your diagnosis. You can consult with a shoulder pain specialist at Greater Austin Pain to provide the best recommendation for treatment based on your condition and health.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

Am I at Risk of Developing Shoulder Pain?

Sport-related injuries caused by prolonged use of the shoulder muscles are a common cause of shoulder pain. If you routinely swim, throw, or swing you could be at risk of developing shoulder pain. You also may experience shoulder pain as a result of a chronic disease such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, or simply weaker muscles caused by old age.

Testimonials

"I am so relieved I could cry! Finally a pain specialist who listens, cares, and wants to help! Dr. Alan Silberberg has given me so much hope! As someone who has seen pain specialists for decades in different states, this is where you want to come. You NEED him in your life! My only regret is not coming in sooner."

Sarah Jean C.

"The staff is very friendly and I was seen on time. The intake process was seamless and efficient. Dr. Jarzombeck is always very kind and thorough in her explanations. These folks are a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Greater Austin Pain Center and Dr. Jarzombeck!"

Kim D.

"Everyone is always very nice and courteous. Dr. Julia is amazing! He is friendly, kind and caring and so easy to talk with. All the office staff I have had contact with has always been courteous and kind as well. Would highly recommend coming here!"

Lesley C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shoulder pain preventable?

The best way to prevent shoulder pain is to avoid shoulder injuries. That means avoiding repetitive use of the shoulder (and stretching your shoulder muscles to avoid shoulder strain). It also means taking steps to prevent moving your arm or shoulder if you are experiencing shoulder pain, as doing so may cause your pain to worsen and potentially cause further injury.

Can I treat shoulder pain at home?

If your shoulder pain is mild, you can try to treat it yourself by applying ice on the affected area for 10-15 minutes every hour until the pain and swelling subside. If you’re suffering from a strained muscle, you may be able to relieve the pain by doing some light shoulder stretches, as well.

When should I see a doctor for my shoulder pain?

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain as a result of an injury or from a chronic health condition, it’s important to visit a pain specialist who can recommend a comprehensive treatment program designed with your health in mind.

You should also make an appointment with a shoulder pain doctor if your pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint, as well as chest tightness or difficulty breathing.

(512) 298-1645

Shoulder Pain Specialists in Austin, TX

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What is Shoulder Pain?