Expert Orthopaedic Guide by Dr. Vishal Sahni, Nagpur

Shoulder pain is one of the most common orthopaedic complaints seen in daily practice. From young working professionals and athletes to elderly individuals, shoulder discomfort can affect anyone and significantly impact routine activities like lifting objects, dressing, sleeping, or even driving.

Many people tend to ignore shoulder pain in its early stages, assuming it will settle on its own. However, untreated shoulder problems can gradually worsen and lead to stiffness, weakness, or long-term disability. Understanding what causes shoulder pain and how it is treated is the first step towards timely recovery.

This expert guide is written by Dr. Vishal Sahni, a highly experienced Orthopedic Surgeon in Nagpur, practising at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, with a special focus on shoulder, elbow, and wrist treatments.

Understanding the Shoulder Joint

The shoulder is one of the most flexible joints in the human body. It allows a wide range of motion, including lifting, rotating, and reaching overhead. This flexibility, however, also makes it more vulnerable to injury.

The shoulder joint consists of:

• Bones of the upper arm, shoulder blade, and collarbone
• Muscles and tendons that stabilise movement
• Ligaments that support joint structure
• Cartilage that cushions movement

When any of these components are affected, shoulder pain develops.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can arise suddenly due to injury or develop gradually over time due to wear and tear. Below are the most common causes explained in detail.

Rotator Cuff Injury

One of the leading causes of shoulder pain, especially in people above 40 years, is a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help lift and rotate the arm.

Rotator cuff problems often cause:

• Pain while lifting the arm
• Difficulty reaching overhead
• Pain while combing hair or wearing clothes
• Shoulder pain at night, especially when lying on the affected side

This condition is commonly seen in individuals involved in repetitive arm movements, such as office workers, electricians, painters, gym-goers, and athletes.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is characterised by progressive stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Over time, shoulder movement becomes extremely limited.

Common symptoms include:

• Gradual onset of pain
• Increasing stiffness
• Difficulty performing daily activities
• Pain even during rest

Frozen shoulder is more common in people with diabetes, thyroid disorders, and those who have had prolonged shoulder immobility.

Shoulder Arthritis

As we age, the cartilage in the shoulder joint may gradually wear down, leading to arthritis. Shoulder arthritis causes:

• Deep, aching shoulder pain
• Stiffness in the morning
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain during movement and rest

This condition is more common in older adults but can also affect younger individuals with previous injuries.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement occurs when shoulder tendons get compressed during arm movements. This often leads to:

• Pain while lifting the arm sideways
• Discomfort during overhead activities
• Shoulder weakness

Early diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent further tendon damage.

Shoulder Dislocation or Instability

A shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone comes out of its socket. This may occur due to sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

After dislocation, patients may experience:

• Severe pain and deformity
• Swelling and restricted movement
• Recurrent shoulder instability if untreated

Proper orthopaedic management is essential to avoid repeated dislocations.

Tendinitis and Bursitis

Inflammation of tendons (tendinitis) or bursae (bursitis) around the shoulder can cause pain and swelling. These conditions often develop due to repetitive movements, poor posture, or overuse.

Symptoms include:

• Localised shoulder pain
• Pain during movement
• Tenderness around the joint

Referred Pain from Neck or Spine

Sometimes shoulder pain is not caused by a shoulder problem at all. Neck issues such as cervical spine problems can cause pain that radiates to the shoulder and arm. Accurate diagnosis by an orthopaedic specialist is crucial in such cases.

When Should You See a Shoulder Pain Specialist?

You should consult an orthopaedic doctor for shoulder pain if:

• Pain lasts more than a few days
• Shoulder pain worsens at night
• You experience stiffness or weakness
• There is swelling, deformity, or numbness
• Daily activities become difficult

Early consultation helps avoid long-term complications.

How Shoulder Pain Is Diagnosed

At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, Dr. Vishal Sahni follows a systematic and patient-centric approach to diagnosis.

Diagnosis includes:

• Detailed medical history
• Physical examination of shoulder movement and strength
• Assessment of posture and neck involvement
• Imaging tests such as X-ray or advanced scans if required

Accurate diagnosis ensures that the treatment plan is specific to the cause of pain.

Shoulder Pain Treatment Options

Treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying condition, severity, age, and activity level of the patient.

Non-Surgical Shoulder Pain Treatment

Most shoulder conditions can be managed without surgery if treated early.

Non-surgical treatment includes:

• Activity modification and rest
• Targeted physiotherapy for shoulder strengthening
• Pain-relieving medications as advised
• Posture correction and ergonomic guidance

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder mobility and preventing recurrence.

Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Structured shoulder physiotherapy focuses on:

• Improving range of motion
• Strengthening shoulder muscles
• Reducing stiffness and inflammation
• Gradual return to daily activities

Dr. Vishal Sahni closely monitors rehabilitation progress to ensure safe recovery.

Injection-Based Pain Management

In certain cases, targeted injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain, allowing faster participation in physiotherapy. These are always used judiciously and only when clinically indicated.

Surgical Treatment for Shoulder Pain

Surgery is considered only when non-surgical methods fail or in cases of severe injury.

Surgical treatment may be recommended for:

• Complete rotator cuff tears
• Recurrent shoulder dislocation
• Advanced arthritis
• Severe stiffness not responding to therapy

Modern orthopaedic techniques allow minimally invasive procedures with quicker recovery when surgery is required.

Life After Shoulder Pain Treatment

With proper treatment and guided rehabilitation, most patients experience:

• Significant pain relief
• Improved shoulder movement
• Better sleep quality
• Return to normal work and daily activities

Consistency with exercises and follow-up care is essential for long-term success.

Why Choose Dr. Vishal Sahni for Shoulder Pain Treatment in Nagpur?

Dr. Vishal Sahni is a highly qualified and experienced Orthopedic Surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow, and wrist conditions.

Qualifications:

MBBS, MS Ortho, FRCS Ortho (London), MCh Ortho (Liverpool)

His international training and patient-focused approach ensure world-class orthopaedic care in Nagpur.

At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, patients receive:

• Accurate diagnosis
• Personalised treatment plans
• Advanced non-surgical and surgical care
• Ethical and evidence-based treatment

Final Words

Shoulder pain should never be ignored, especially when it interferes with daily life. Understanding the cause and seeking timely treatment can prevent long-term damage and help you regain pain-free movement.

If you or your loved ones are experiencing shoulder discomfort, consulting an experienced shoulder pain specialist in Nagpur can make a significant difference in recovery and quality of life.

FAQs on Shoulder Pain

What is the most common cause of shoulder pain?
The most common cause of shoulder pain is rotator cuff problems. This usually happens due to overuse, ageing, poor posture, or sudden injury, and it often causes pain while lifting the arm or sleeping.

Why does my shoulder pain increase at night?
Shoulder pain often increases at night because inflammation and reduced movement during sleep put pressure on the shoulder joint, especially in conditions like rotator cuff injury or frozen shoulder.

Can shoulder pain go away on its own?
Mild shoulder pain may improve with rest, but persistent pain should not be ignored. If pain lasts more than a few days or affects daily activities, proper orthopaedic evaluation is necessary.

Is shoulder pain always related to injury?
No, shoulder pain is not always due to injury. It can also be caused by arthritis, frozen shoulder, tendon inflammation, poor posture, or even problems in the neck that refer pain to the shoulder.

When should I see an orthopaedic doctor for shoulder pain?
You should see an orthopedic doctor if shoulder pain lasts more than a week, worsens at night, causes stiffness or weakness, or makes routine activities difficult.

How is shoulder pain diagnosed by a specialist?
Shoulder pain is diagnosed through a detailed physical examination, understanding movement limitations, and imaging tests if required. Accurate diagnosis helps in choosing the right treatment.

Can shoulder pain be treated without surgery?
Yes, most shoulder pain conditions can be treated without surgery. Non-surgical treatment includes physiotherapy, guided exercises, posture correction, and pain management methods.

What role does physiotherapy play in shoulder pain treatment?
Physiotherapy helps reduce pain, improve shoulder movement, increase strength, and prevent future injuries. It is a key part of shoulder pain recovery.

How long does it take to recover from shoulder pain?
Recovery time depends on the cause and severity of the problem. Some conditions improve in a few weeks, while others may take several months with proper treatment and rehabilitation.

Is shoulder pain common in younger people?
Yes, shoulder pain is common in younger people due to gym injuries, sports activities, long hours of desk work, and poor posture.

Can poor posture cause shoulder pain?
Yes, poor posture, especially while working on computers or mobile phones, can strain shoulder muscles and lead to long-term pain and stiffness.

What happens if shoulder pain is left untreated?
Untreated shoulder pain can lead to stiffness, weakness, reduced movement, and long-term joint damage. Early treatment helps prevent complications.

Who is the right specialist to consult for shoulder pain in Nagpur?
An orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder conditions is the right expert to consult. Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, specialises in shoulder, elbow, and wrist treatments.