Signs You Should See an Orthopedic Surgeon for Shoulder Pain

Your shoulder is the most flexible and complicated joint in your body. It includes three bones, about a dozen muscles, and many ligaments and tendons. Everything works together to allow your shoulder to move in any direction, which enables you to function well in everyday life.

But all these moving pieces also mean your shoulder is more susceptible to injury and pain. Shoulder pain can be a major disrupter to your life. But, how do you know when the pain is a minor problem that will go away soon or a bigger issue that requires specialized attention?

Dr. Austin Yeargan and our team at Carolina Joint and Arthritis are experts in treating shoulder injuries. Based on our experience treating patients with shoulder issues, here are a few signs you should see an orthopedic surgeon for shoulder pain.

The pain is persistent

If you have shoulder pain for a couple of days that then fades away, you don’t need a doctor. But if you have severe pain that lasts longer than a few days, even with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers, you should see a doctor. They can order imaging to determine the problem and begin treatment right away.

Obvious swelling or deformity

If your shoulder looks different than normal, this could indicate a bone fracture or a dislocation. This could include a new bump, your shoulder sticking out at a strange angle, or significant swelling that doesn’t decrease after a day or two.

Numbness or tingling

Numbness or tingling in your shoulder, arm, and hand are signs that you’re dealing with a nerve problem caused by an injury affecting the nerves that run near your shoulder. Nerve damage can become permanent if it’s not treated, so you need a specialist to protect your nerves and restore your strength.

Recurring dislocations

If your shoulder has ever been dislocated, it has a higher chance of dislocating again because your ligaments have become stretched out and weakened. If dislocations continue to happen, you need to see a doctor to discuss treatment options to help tighten your shoulder joint.

Movement restrictions interfere with daily activities

If your pain keeps you from your daily activities — such as brushing your teeth, getting dressed, reaching up, and sleeping — you need an orthopedic doctor to evaluate your shoulder and determine the best course of action so you can function normally again.

Dr. Yeargan has several treatment options available for shoulder pain, including physical therapy, the Tenex Health TX procedure, PRP therapy, amniotic fluid injections, Nanoplasty™️ and Mechanical Axis Deviation Procedure (NAMAD), and surgery if necessary.

If you think it’s time to visit an orthopedic surgeon for your shoulder pain, Dr. Yeargan would be happy to see you at Carolina Joint and Arthritis. Call our Wilmington, North Carolina, office to schedule an appointment, or use our online scheduler anytime.