Understanding Shoulder Pain: When to See an Orthopaedic Surgeon

Learn the common causes of shoulder pain, when it’s time to see an orthopaedic surgeon, and how expert care in Venice, Florida can restore your strength and mobility.

Why Shoulder Pain Matters

Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons people visit an orthopaedic specialist. The shoulder is an incredibly complex joint—allowing more motion than any other joint in the body—but that flexibility also makes it vulnerable to injury and wear. Whether it’s a nagging ache when you reach overhead, pain that wakes you at night, or weakness lifting objects, understanding the cause is the first step toward getting back to your normal activities.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Not all shoulder pain is the same. Some patients experience sharp pain after a fall or sports injury, while others notice a slow onset of stiffness and discomfort over time. The most frequent causes include:

• Rotator Cuff Tears: The rotator cuff muscles and tendons stabilize your shoulder. Tears can occur from overuse, heavy lifting, or degeneration over time, leading to weakness and pain when raising the arm.

• Impingement Syndrome: When tendons get pinched between shoulder bones, it can cause inflammation and pain—especially when reaching overhead.

• Shoulder Arthritis: Cartilage wear leads to grinding, stiffness, and loss of motion.

• Labral Tears: Often seen in athletes or after trauma, these tears affect the cartilage rim that stabilizes the shoulder socket.

• Bursitis and Tendinitis: Inflammation of the small cushioning sacs or tendons can make even simple movements painful.

When to See an Orthopaedic Surgeon

Occasional soreness after activity is common, but certain signs mean it’s time for expert evaluation:

• Pain that persists beyond a few weeks

• Weakness or loss of motion

• Night pain that interrupts sleep

• Shoulder instability or “popping” sensations

• Pain following a fall or sports injury

  
  

An orthopaedic surgeon can perform a detailed physical exam and imaging—such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI—to determine whether the issue is structural, inflammatory, or degenerative.

Modern Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your shoulder pain. Many conditions respond well to non-surgical options such as rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, or targeted cortisone injections.

For more advanced problems like large rotator cuff tears or severe arthritis, surgical repair or replacement may provide lasting relief. At the Center for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques and advanced shoulder replacement options—including reverse shoulder arthroplasty for patients with complex rotator cuff damage.

Recovery and Outlook

The good news is that most people recover excellent function with the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. Whether it’s physical therapy, an injection, or a surgical repair, early evaluation helps prevent long-term stiffness and weakness.

When in Doubt, Get It Checked

If shoulder pain is keeping you from enjoying your favorite activities—or even a good night’s sleep—it’s worth getting an expert opinion. The earlier the problem is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat effectively.

Ready for Help?

Dr. Christopher Roberts specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain with the latest evidence-based techniques. Visit www.drchrisroberts.com to schedule your consultation today.