Shoulder and Foot Pain: Possible Causes and Specialist Guidance

Shoulder and foot pain?

Hello: My mother is 67 years old and has been experiencing pain in her shoulders and the soles of her feet for several weeks.
She has a history of hypertension and heart disease and takes her medications regularly.
What other conditions could cause these symptoms? Which specialist should she see? Thank you!

Shih Chuan-Chuan, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/12/16

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology

Based on age, bone spurs (in the neck and lower back) may be a primary consideration for causing nerve pain; however, this is not the only possibility.
Since the information you provided is insufficient, it cannot be determined definitively.
It would be advisable to take her to a neurologist for a diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2002/12/16

More Info

Shoulder and foot pain can be indicative of a variety of underlying health issues, especially in an older adult like your mother, who is 67 years old and has a history of hypertension and heart disease. It’s important to approach this situation with a comprehensive understanding of potential causes and the appropriate specialists to consult.

Possible Causes of Shoulder and Foot Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: Conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, or bursitis can lead to pain in both the shoulder and foot. Osteoarthritis is particularly common in older adults and can affect multiple joints, including those in the shoulder and feet.

2. Neuropathy: Given your mother's medical history, peripheral neuropathy could be a concern. This condition often results from diabetes or vascular issues and can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the extremities, including the feet.

3. Circulatory Problems: Given her history of heart disease, it’s crucial to consider vascular issues. Poor circulation can lead to pain in the feet, while shoulder pain could be related to referred pain from heart conditions.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in one area of the body can be referred from another. For instance, shoulder pain could be related to issues in the neck or spine, while foot pain could stem from problems in the lower back.

5. Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as gout, which can cause sudden and severe pain in the foot, or infections that may affect the joints or soft tissues, should also be considered.

6. Fibromyalgia: This chronic condition can cause widespread pain, including in the shoulders and feet, and is often accompanied by fatigue and sleep disturbances.

Recommended Specialists
Given the complexity of your mother’s symptoms and her medical history, it would be advisable to consult the following specialists:
1. Primary Care Physician (PCP): The first step should be to see her primary care physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests or imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of her pain.

2. Rheumatologist: If arthritis or other autoimmune conditions are suspected, a rheumatologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult. They can provide a more detailed assessment and treatment options for joint-related issues.

3. Neurologist: If neuropathy or other nerve-related issues are suspected, a neurologist can conduct tests to assess nerve function and determine if there is any underlying neurological condition.

4. Orthopedic Specialist: For musculoskeletal issues, an orthopedic doctor can evaluate her shoulder and foot pain, particularly if there are concerns about structural problems or injuries.

5. Cardiologist: Given her history of heart disease, it may also be wise to consult a cardiologist, especially if there are any concerns about circulation or if her shoulder pain could be related to cardiac issues.

Conclusion
In summary, your mother’s shoulder and foot pain could stem from a variety of causes, ranging from musculoskeletal issues to neuropathy or circulatory problems. It is essential to approach this with a multidisciplinary perspective, starting with her primary care physician, who can guide her to the appropriate specialists based on the initial findings. Early intervention and a comprehensive evaluation are key to managing her symptoms effectively and improving her quality of life.

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