Highly Trained & Experienced Professionals at AOSMI Will Treat Your Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain

Reviewed by AOSMI’s board certified, fellowship trained upper extremity specialist, Dr. Stacey Gallacher.

At Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, our experienced shoulder pain specialists treat various injuries and conditions at our New Jersey facilities. When you choose AOSMI, we will perform a thorough evaluation including history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests as indicated to pinpoint the precise cause of your shoulder pain before treating it promptly and effectively so we can get you on the path to recovery.

Shoulder Conditions We Treat

At AOSMI, we treat a wide range of conditions that can cause moderate to severe shoulder pain, including:

These conditions are often caused by overuse, inflammation, or an injury. . Considering the source of your shoulder pain and the extent of the damage, we will develop a highly individualized treatment plan designed to alleviate your pain and restore your mobility.

Non- Surgical Shoulder Pain Treatments

Since our physicians place an emphasis on conservative treatment methods whenever possible, you may be recommended to try:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDS are medicines that are widely used to relieve and reduce pain by blocking the production of certain body chemicals that cause inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe Ibuprofen, Naproxen or a similar NSAID depending on the severity of your injury.

  • Physical therapy

Physical therapy aims to reduce shoulder pain and improve mobility without surgery. Typical physical therapy treatments for shoulder pain and injuries include: stretching, strengthening, kinesio taping, heat or ice compress, and electrical stimulation. 

*AOSMI offers physical therapy on-site.

  • Massage therapy

Massage therapy is an effective treatment option for shoulder pain as it aims to stabilize muscles, relieve tension and increase your range of motion. AOSMI offers deep tissue massage, therapeutic massage, and Swedish massage.

  • Injections

Your doctor may use cortisone and other injections to help reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder.

  • Acupuncture

During acupuncture treatments, thin needles are inserted through the skin at strategic points known as meridians that stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue to boost the body’s natural painkillers. 

Shoulder Surgery Options

If conservative treatments are insufficient, we also offer a variety of surgical treatments, including:

Fellowship-trained, board-certified surgeons perform our shoulder surgeries, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you are in the best possible hands. You can receive care at every step of your journey – including rehabilitation – under one roof since we offer comprehensive orthopedic services at our state-of-the-art facilities.

AOSMI Shoulder Pain FAQs

What can cause shoulder pain without injury?

Shoulder pain can be caused by various conditions, even if there is no injury involved. Some common causes of shoulder pain without injury include:

  • Rotator cuff tendinitis or tear
  • Bursitis
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Arthritis
  • Torn labrum
  • Tendinitis or tendinopathy
  • Impingement syndrome
  • Shoulder instability
  • Pinched nerve

How can I tell if my shoulder pain is serious?

The best way to determine the severity of your shoulder pain is to seek medical attention, especially if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Sudden, severe pain that comes on without any apparent cause
  • Sudden severe pain after an injury
  • Swelling or bruising around the joint
  • Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the shoulder
  • Weakness or numbness in the arm or hand
  • If you have a fever along with shoulder pain, you should see a doctor immediately, as it could be a sign of an infection.

Can shoulder pain be a symptom of something else?

Yes, shoulder pain can be a symptom of other underlying conditions. For example, shoulder pain can be a symptom of:

  • Heart attack
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Lung disease
  • Shingles
  • Cervical spine (neck) problems

What is the best treatment for shoulder pain?

The treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause. In general, conservative treatment options include rest, ice, and physical therapy. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation. For some conditions, surgical intervention may be necessary. A doctor or orthopedic surgeon can provide a tailored treatment plan based on a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the shoulder pain.