SHOULDER PAIN DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT.

In our previous articles, here, we looked at the causes of shoulder pain; we dive into diagnosis and possible treatment.

Diagnosis

The basis of quality care is accurate diagnosis. For effective diagnosis, the following examinations are done

• Subjective examination; you will be required to give details about the pain, how it started? When it started? Where you feel the pain? nature of pain if radiating or not. These questions help us create a hypothesis of what is going on. We also ask about limitation of movement and restrictions in activity participation. Questions will vary in relation to the presenting complain.

example: one can come in with pain in the left shoulder, which is worse at night. The pain started suddenly…and such it’s important that you give detailed history of the condition, even those you view are not relevant to you.

• Objective examination; here you will be asked to move the arm in different direction, while you report any incidence of pain or discomfort. The medic will also move the arm passively to feel the joint movement and such. You will be required to expose the joint for observation either both or the affected one depending on presentation. A series of movements will be done to rule out or in a particular diagnosis.

The medic will palpate the joint and other necessary examination required.

• Imaging maybe required; however in some cases, the diagnosis can be made from subjective and objective examination. The following images maybe required;

• X-ray of the shoulder joint complex

• MRI

• CT scan

• Ultrasound

• EMG among others.

Note: always provide enough information, don’t hide details. This helps in diagnosis and treatment

TREATMENT.

Treatment is based on diagnosis. It general includes;

✓Education– get enough information from medical personnel on the condition and available treatment and what you can do. Understanding the condition will help you have a peace of mind and collaborate in the treatment.

✓Medication; pain medications can be prescribed; in advanced cases steroids are administered. Ask about your treatment

✓Physiotherapy– this is the backbone of shoulder pain. It includes manual therapy/exercises/taping/electrotherapy/icing or heat. The choice depends on the diagnosis, your goals in the treatment plan and such.

✓Surgery-usually the last resort, however in some cases, it’s the preferred first choice. Ask about rehabilitation after surgery.

Tips for healthy shoulder;

• Adopt proper ergonomics
• Exercise
• Always seek medical assistance incase of pain or discomfort

Take home.

Treatment depends on diagnosis, accurate diagnosis depends on you providing accurate information.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!