Shoulder ultrasound examination, Vracar, Belgrade

Are you suffering from shoulder pain? The shoulder joint consists of three bones: the upper part of the upper arm (humerus), the scapula and the clavicle. The joint is surrounded by a capsule filled with fluid that lubricates and enables proper functioning. When the joint loses mobility, fluid secretion decreases, which can lead to complications such as osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder or contractures.

Dynamic stability is provided by four muscles of the rotator cuff: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis, which hold the humerus in the cup. The shoulder is the most mobile, but also the most injured joint in the body.

Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons people see physical therapists. This problem often manifests itself at night, which can be the result of various conditions. Due to its complex structure and high mobility, the shoulder is susceptible to injuries and inflammatory processes, which can significantly affect the quality of life.

A painful feeling in the shoulder can manifest itself through different symptoms. Here are some of them:

Shoulder pain: It can be sharp, dull, or throbbing, and often gets worse with movement.

Impaired movement: Difficulty raising the arm or turning the shoulder.

Swelling or stiffness: The shoulder may feel swollen or stiff, making everyday activities difficult.

Pinching or tingling: A tingling or pricking sensation may spread down the arm.

Pain when sleeping: It can be difficult to find a comfortable position during sleep due to pain.

Pain during activity: Increased pain when lifting heavy objects or performing certain sports activities.

• Frozen shoulder syndrome
• Inflammation of tendons
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Stock market inflammation

Shoulder pain can be the result of various factors, ranging from injuries and inflammation to degenerative conditions. These causes often affect mobility and quality of life, so it is important to recognize their symptoms and act on time. Here are some of the most common causes:

Inflammation: An infection or injury can cause redness, swelling, and a feeling of heat in the affected part of the shoulder.

Trauma or damage to muscles and tendons: Improper posture or excessive strain can lead to pain and tension.

Inflammation of the bursa: The bursa, which allows muscles and tendons to slide smoothly over bones, can become inflamed and cause discomfort.

Bone and cartilage damage: Arthritis, as the most common cause, leads to joint degeneration, which can cause pain and stiffness.

If you suspect any of these causes, it is advisable to consult a doctor in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment.

Treatment of shoulder pain often requires a comprehensive approach, and one of the first steps may be to perform an ultrasound. This diagnostic method helps to assess the condition of the joint, tendons and surrounding structures, allowing the doctor to determine the cause of the pain.

Once diagnosed, treatment may include:

Physical therapy: Specialized therapists can help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and improve mobility through a targeted exercise program.

Medicines: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and inflammation, while in some cases stronger analgesics are needed.

Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide quick pain relief and reduce inflammation.

Cold and warm therapies: Using ice or heat can help reduce pain and stiffness.

Surgery: In case of more severe injuries or conditions, such as ruptured tendons or significant damage, surgery may be necessary.

Lifestyle changes: Introducing ergonomic solutions in the workplace or avoiding activities that aggravate pain can contribute to faster recovery.

By combining these methods, most patients can achieve significant improvement and return to normal activities. It is always advisable to consult a specialist in order to choose the best treatment strategy.