Shoulder
Pain Management
In Fountain Valley, finding the best doctor to help with
shoulder pain management will take some research. Ask for referrals, research
online reviews, speak to the health insurance representative or get a
recommendation from a family doctor. Each option will produce the best choice.
Allowing for a wide range of movement, the shoulder consists
of two main bones the scapula and the humerus with a connecting flexible joint.
Arthritis and various shoulder injuries, including a torn rotator cuff or
impingement syndrome may cause pain and limit range of motion. Using different
shoulder pain management techniques may help in alleviating the symptoms.
Diagnosis
Before implementing a shoulder pain management routine, an
accurate diagnosis should be the first step. Pain may be an indicator of a
larger problem, including pinched or damaged nerves, a bone fracture, and
numerous other related joint disorders. In Fountain Valley, in order to receive
an accurate diagnosis, the doctor will usually begin with a physical exam
followed by testing.
- X-rays to determine if the shoulder area has fractures, a
tumor or arthritis
- MRI to help in diagnosis any types of problems with
nerves, tendons or ligaments
- Electrodiagnostic study may be implemented if the shoulder
pain is combined with numbness and tingling
Unless the damage is too severe, the best Fountain Valley
doctor will begin with non-surgical options to help with the overall healing
process. In many cases a non-surgical shoulder pain management treatment
program is enough to ease the symptoms of pain and discomfort.
- Rest and avoiding any activities that contribute to the
stress or adds pressure to the shoulder.
- Ice packs to help reduce swelling and pain may usually be
applied in 20-30 minute intervals every 3-4 hours or as directed by a health
care professional.
- Heat may also be applied to help ease the pain in the
muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications with or without a
prescription may help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroids may be administered through injection. The
medicine will go directly into the joint area aiding in reducing inflammation.
- Topical creams with an analgesic to help ease the pain
- Physical therapy exercises to help strengthen muscles to
ease the pain
Surgery
When conventional approaches fail, surgery may be the next
step in the shoulder pain management treatment options. The type and
invasiveness of the surgery depends on the problem. In most cases, shoulder
surgery will be conducted in one of the two major methods.
- Arthroscopic surgery is less invasive with small incisions
made to fix joint damage. The recovery time is less with this option, getting a
patient back to a normal daily routine in a faster manner.
- Open surgery is often implemented in more severe cases
where the orthopedic surgeon needs a better view of the damaged area. Open
surgery has a longer healing and recovery process.
Under some circumstances, physical therapy may also be
prescribed after surgery to help regain strength and flexibility in the
shoulder area.
In Fountain Valley, Dr. Howard Marans can guide a potential
new patient through all the various shoulder pain management options to achieve
an optimal outcome. He accepts PPO and will work with other insurance companies
to give the highest level of care without creating a financial burden. Please
click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.
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