Shoulder & Elbow Pain
Shoulder and elbow pain are common musculoskeletal complaints that can affect people of all ages. These joints play an important role in daily activities, from lifting and reaching to bending and gripping, making discomfort in these areas significantly impact quality of life.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of shoulder pain often include stiffness, swelling, weakness, limited range of motion, and pain that worsens with movement or at night. Some individuals may experience clicking, catching, or instability in the joint. Elbow pain typically presents as tenderness, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty in bending and straightening the arm. In conditions like “tennis elbow” or “golfer’s elbow,” pain may radiate down the forearm and cause weakness in gripping.
Causes:
The causes of shoulder and elbow pain vary widely. Shoulder pain can result from rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, arthritis, bursitis, or dislocations. Overuse, repetitive strain, or trauma can also contribute. Elbow pain is commonly caused by repetitive strain injuries such as lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) or medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow). Other causes include fractures, arthritis, nerve compression, or inflammation of tendons and ligaments. Poor posture, sports injuries, and occupational strain are significant risk factors for both shoulder and elbow pain.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the pain. Initial management often includes rest, activity modification, ice application, and use of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. Physiotherapy is highly effective, focusing on stretching, strengthening exercises, and improving flexibility and posture. Supportive measures such as braces, slings, or ergonomic adjustments may also help. In cases of severe inflammation or persistent symptoms, corticosteroid injections may be recommended. For advanced conditions such as severe arthritis, recurrent dislocations, or complete tendon tears, surgical intervention may be necessary. Minimally invasive techniques like arthroscopy are often used to repair or reconstruct the affected tissues.
Maintaining joint health through regular exercise, avoiding overuse, practicing correct posture, and using proper techniques during sports or occupational tasks can help prevent recurrence. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve overall function.