Do you suffer from shoulder pain? You’re not alone. Millions of people around the world experience shoulder pain every year. There are many different causes of shoulder pain, and fortunately, there are also many different treatments available. A shoulder specialist can also help to alleviate shoulder pain.
In this blog post, we will discuss 7 tips for dealing with shoulder pain. We will also introduce you to Dr. M. Daniel Hatch, a Utah shoulder specialist who can help you get relief from your shoulder pain.
Consult a Shoulder Specialist
The first step in dealing with shoulder pain is to consult a doctor. Initial shoulder pain is ignored many times, but a shoulder specialist will be able to determine the cause of your shoulder pain and recommend the best course of treatment. Shoulder pain is often caused by an injury or a degenerative condition, and it is important to get a proper diagnosis from your doctor to avoid further irreparable harm.
Do Shoulder Stretches
One simple way to reduce shoulder pain is to do shoulder stretches. There are many different shoulder stretches that you can do, and you can find instructions for them online or in a book. Shoulder stretches help to loosen the muscles and tendons around the shoulder, which can reduce pain. Certain types of stretches that may help include:
- Arm circles
- Shoulder shrugs
- Neck rolls
Ice
If you have shoulder pain, you may also find relief by applying ice to the area. Ice helps to reduce inflammation and can numb the pain. You can apply ice for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. If you aren’t sure if you should do this, consult your shoulder specialist.
Get a Massage
Another great way to deal with shoulder pain is to get a massage. Massage helps to loosen tight periscapular muscles and tendons such as the trapezius and rhomboids that get tight as compensation for other problems around the shoulder. Massage can also increase blood flow to the area.
This increased blood flow can help to reduce inflammation and pain. If you don’t have access to a masseuse, you can try using a foam roller or tennis or lacrosse ball to massage the affected area yourself.
Try Topical Painkillers
There are also many topical painkillers that can be effective in treating shoulder pain. These painkillers are applied directly to the skin, and they work by numbing the pain. Some of the most common topical painkillers include:
- Capsaicin cream
- Tiger balm
- Icy hot
- Voltaren gel
Wrap It
If you have shoulder pain, you may also find relief by wrapping the affected area. There are many different types of wraps that you can use, and you can find them at most drugstores or online. Wraps help to support the shoulder and reduce movement, which can lead to less pain.
Avoid Activity
If you have shoulder pain, it is important to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Activities that may make shoulder pain worse include:
- Lifting heavy objects
- Repetitive motions
- Reaching overhead
How Dr. Hatch at The Orthopedic Partners, an RCM Clinic Can Help You
If you are suffering from shoulder pain, Dr. Hatch and his team at The Orthopedic Partners, an RCM Clinic can help. Dr. Hatch is a specialist who is dedicated to helping people get relief from their shoulder pain. He offers a variety of different treatments specifically designed to keep you healthy. If you are suffering from shoulder pain, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hatch. He will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.