Shoulder Pain Treatment in St. Louis
Shoulder pain can make everyday tasks – like reaching, lifting, or sleeping difficult. Whether it’s from the from the gym, work, or an old injury, proper treatment matters. We offer shoulder pain treatment in St. Louis and start all of our treatment plans with a thorough exam to help determine where your pain is coming from. One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is strain or injury to the rotator cuff.
What does the rotator cuff have to do with shoulder pain?
The term “rotator cuff” describes four small muscles holding your shoulder in its shallow socket when the more significant muscles move your arm. Less than 10% of rotator cuff tears result from acute injuries like falling, pushing, pulling, throwing or lifting. The vast majority of injuries are the result of repeated strains or “impingement.” Rotator cuff impingement means the area where your rotator cuff tendon lives has become too crowded and the rotator cuff is pinched each time you raise your arm.
Common Causes
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Impingement
- Poor Movement Patterns
- Muscle Imbalances
Symptoms
Most chronic strains begin silently, with symptoms becoming more evident as the tear progresses. Pain is often localized to the front and outside of your shoulder but can sometimes radiate down your arm and is worse at night. Patients who have suffered an acute rotator cuff injury often report a “tearing” or “snapping” sensation accompanied by severe pain and weakness.
- Pain with overhead movement
- Weakness
- Clicking or catching
- Limited mobility
Our Treatment Approach
Our goal is to get you back to normal as soon as possible. To do that we will likely recommend one or more of the following:
- Therapy Modalities like Low Level Laser Therapy or Electric Stimulation to decrease your pain, limit inflammation, and ease muscle spasms
- Myofascial release through dry needling or manual myofascial release to help with long standing tightness and soft tissue adhesions
- Joint Adjustments
- Strength Based Rehab
FAQ
Why does my shoulder hurt when I lift my arm?
This is often caused by impingement, rotator cuff irritation, or poor movement mechanics.
Will shoulder pain go away on its own?
Minor irritation may improve, but ongoing pain usually requires treatment to fully resolve.
What treatments are effective for shoulder pain?
Treatment often includes joint work, soft tissue therapy, laser therapy, and strengthening exercises.
Should I stop working out with shoulder pain?
Not always – modifying movements and addressing the cause is usually more effective than complete rest.
We provide shoulder pain treatment in St. Louis and accommodate patients from the surrounding greater St. Louis area. Schedule your appointment today!