This is a very common problem where people experience a sharp pain at certain angles, for example, when reaching for an object, or when putting on clothes.
The pain also typically comes down the side of the upper arm. It may last 10 to 20 sec, and be associated with a feeling of weakness. People commonly feel pain when lying on the shoulder at night.
The most common condition causing such pains at certain angles is Subacromial Impingement.
This means that when the shoulder moves at certain angles, the tendons in the shoulder are rubbed by hard tissue (called bursitis) or the overlying acromion bone.
Impingement can develop out of nowhere or may start after a minor strain or injury of the shoulder. It can affect people in their 20s to 50s.
Other possible and associated conditions causing pain at certain angles of the shoulder are:
– Rotator Cuff tendinitis
– Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendinitis
– Labrum tear
– Joint Arthritis
A physical examination by a Shoulder specialist is an important part of the diagnosis to differentiate between the causes. Xrays and MRI are also commonly ordered to evaluate the internal condition. Only after an accurate diagnosis has been made, can appropriate treatment be started.
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To the patient, having to undergo a procedure is always frightening. Our team is here to help you through the process, we are with you at every step of the way.
Also, modern surgical methods are proven to be very safe with very low complication rates.
Advanced treatments include:
- Tissue-healing stimulant injections
- Arthroscopic (Key-Hole) procedures to repair cartilage and meniscus
- Shoulder Joint Replacements for advanced arthritis
There are many different medical plans with different coverage limits.
We are affiliated with many insurers and will help patients obtain approval for their treatment.
You can come see us without having to obtain any referral letters first.
The exception is if you are using a corporate insurance plan, as some corporate insurers require you to see a family doctor on your panel first, and ask for a referral letter to us.
Persistent pain usually means a significant problem. Simple strains and sprains rarely last more than 2 to 3 weeks.
The shoulder is a complex joint with many structures within it which can get injured.
If you have pain, and furthermore associated with a catching feeling, weakness, or sharp pains in certain angles, you should get it checked.
While level of pain is one indicator, it is not an accurate indicator.
For example, if the pain is due to a tissue tear, even though it is mild, you will need to reduce the activities.
The most important is first an accurate diagnosis.
There are various treatment methods for joint pain, each with their own pros and cons. These will be discussed in detail by our specialist during consultation.
Generally, the methods include:
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