Left Shoulder Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

Left shoulder joint pain and difficulty lifting it? What disease is this? How to treat it?

Hello Dr.
Yeh,
For the past month, I have been experiencing spontaneous soreness in my left shoulder joint, and I am unable to lift my left arm much higher than about 135 degrees (measured from my thigh).
Additionally, I cannot rotate my arm, and when I try to extend it backward to reach my back, I can only reach my hip (I am unable to perform a resting position).
I am unsure what this condition might be.
Which specialist should I see? Will I be able to make a full recovery? Could you please advise me? Thank you.

Fei Long, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/24

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

The description resembles frozen shoulder; it is recommended to consult a neurologist, orthopedic specialist, or rehabilitation physician.

Reply Date: 2005/05/24

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your left shoulder pain. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing a condition related to the rotator cuff or other soft tissue injuries in the shoulder region. The inability to raise your arm beyond 135 degrees and the pain when trying to move your arm are significant indicators that warrant further investigation.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Rotator Cuff Injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of motion. Injuries to the rotator cuff can result from acute trauma or chronic overuse. Symptoms often include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.

2. Shoulder Impingement: This occurs when the shoulder blade puts pressure on the underlying soft tissues when you raise your arm. It can lead to pain and restricted movement.

3. Tendinitis or Bursitis: Inflammation of the tendons or the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction) can cause pain and limit mobility. This is often due to repetitive overhead activities or trauma.

4. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, which can develop gradually and severely limit movement.

Recommended Actions
Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consult with an orthopedic specialist or a sports medicine physician. They will be able to perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess the condition of your rotator cuff and other shoulder structures.

Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy: A structured physical therapy program can help improve strength and flexibility in your shoulder. Therapists often use exercises to restore range of motion and reduce pain.

2. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation.

3. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate your symptoms is essential. Resting the shoulder can help in the healing process.

4. Surgery: If conservative treatments do not provide relief and your symptoms persist, surgical options may be considered, especially if there is a significant tear in the rotator cuff.

Prognosis
The prognosis for recovery from shoulder injuries varies depending on the specific diagnosis and the extent of the injury. Many patients experience significant improvement with appropriate treatment, including physical therapy and medication. However, some conditions, like frozen shoulder, may take longer to resolve and require a more extended rehabilitation period.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms suggest a possible rotator cuff injury or another shoulder-related issue. It is essential to seek medical attention from an orthopedic specialist who can provide a definitive diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. With appropriate care, many individuals can achieve full recovery and return to their normal activities.

Please take care, and I wish you a speedy recovery!
Best regards.

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