Which Specialist to See for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief?

Which department to see?

A few days ago, I woke up and got out of bed to use the bathroom.
When I turned my head, I felt intense pain from the left side of my neck down to my shoulder, and I became hesitant to move because any slight movement caused pain.
After a while, it improved significantly, but I still experienced pain when raising my arm or lifting objects.
Since I was uncomfortable, I decided to see a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who diagnosed me with a sprain and treated me with acupuncture and cupping therapy.
The next morning, I was able to move my arm normally and thought I was fine.
However, I accidentally bumped my left shoulder down hard against the bed, and the pain returned intensely.
I applied a pain relief patch, and gradually, the pain subsided again.
For the next five days, I had no discomfort in my left shoulder and neck and could move my shoulder normally without pain.
However, on the sixth morning, when I tried to turn over in bed, I felt pain again, which lasted for about five minutes before improving significantly.
I would like to make an appointment to see a doctor, but I'm unsure which specialty to choose.

Weiwei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/22

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, can I inquire about orthopedics or rehabilitation at Changhua Hospital? Thank you for your concern.

Reply Date: 2016/06/22

More Info

When dealing with neck and shoulder pain, especially after experiencing acute pain or injury, it is essential to consult the right specialist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Based on your symptoms and the history you've provided, there are a few options to consider.

1. Orthopedic Specialist: An orthopedic doctor specializes in the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Given that your pain seems to be related to movement and possibly involves the shoulder joint, an orthopedic evaluation could be beneficial. They can assess for any structural issues, such as rotator cuff injuries, impingement syndrome, or other orthopedic conditions that may be causing your pain.

2. Neurologist: If your pain is accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand, it may be indicative of nerve involvement, such as a pinched nerve in the cervical spine. A neurologist can perform a thorough neurological examination and may recommend imaging studies like an MRI to evaluate for any nerve compression or other neurological issues.

3. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Specialist: Also known as physiatrists, these specialists focus on restoring function and improving quality of life through non-surgical means. They can provide a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that may include physical therapy, pain management techniques, and other non-invasive treatments.

4. Physical Therapist: If you are looking for immediate relief and rehabilitation, a physical therapist can help. They can design a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles around your shoulder and neck, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. They may also use modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or manual therapy to alleviate pain.

5. Chiropractor: If you are open to alternative treatments, a chiropractor may help with spinal adjustments and manipulations that can relieve pain and improve mobility. However, it is essential to ensure that the chiropractor is licensed and experienced in treating your specific condition.

Given your recent experiences with pain and the fact that it seems to fluctuate, it might be wise to start with an orthopedic specialist or a PM&R specialist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine if further imaging or referrals to other specialists are necessary.
In the meantime, consider some self-care measures to manage your pain:
- Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain.

- Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can help reduce inflammation, while heat can relax tight muscles.

- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.

- Gentle Stretching: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching exercises can help maintain mobility.

It is crucial to listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain, as this can lead to further injury. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention promptly is essential to prevent any long-term complications.

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