Conclusion
As noted throughout this article, there is a treatment protocol to address shoulder pain. It usually starts with oral anti-inflammatory medications unless the problem is very severe and requires surgery immediately. Depending on each case, physical therapy can be prescribed or not. However, patients will also need activity modification recommendations in almost every case.
The medical treatment approach to shoulder pain varies according to the etiology. In osteoarthritis, doctors may want to avoid steroid injections or use hyaluronic acid instead. In adhesive capsulitis, the initial treatment can be painful as the physical therapy stretches attempt to help patients regain their range of motion.
Every case is different, and every patient may require to adapt treatment to their condition. That’s why medical treatment should not be self-administered, and all patients with chronic shoulder pain should be guided by their doctor to find the best solutions. Similarly, acute shoulder pain requires a doctor’s assistance to heal faster. However, in contrast with chronic shoulder pain, it usually responds better to home treatment unless it is caused by severe trauma.