Understanding Common Shoulder Injuries and Treatment Options

Common shoulder injuries can disrupt everyday activities, often causing pain and limiting mobility. Amish A. Naik, MD, PhD, an orthopedic surgeon with RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group who specializes in the treatment of the hand and upper extremities emphasizes the importance of early recognition and treatment to prevent long-term complications, especially for individuals over the age of 65.

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body, with a ball-and-socket structure that allows a wide range of motion. This complexity also makes the shoulder vulnerable to injuries. Younger individuals often experience traumatic injuries, such as dislocations or fractures from falls or sports. However, as Dr. Naik notes, "In people above the age of 65, particularly with conditions like osteoporosis, even small falls can result in significant fractures."

"When you get to your 70s and 80s, up to 50 percent of people may have a rotator cuff tear, but many don't feel it," says Dr. Naik, who practices at Clara Maass Medical Center, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and Jersey City Medical Center, all RWJBarnabas Health facilities. However, when these tears are accompanied by arthritis or become large enough, they can cause pain, especially at night. Dr. Naik advises that individuals experiencing shoulder pain lasting more than a few days or a limited range of motion should seek medical attention. "Pain that wakes you up in the middle of the night or that doesn't respond to ice or anti-inflammatory medications for more than a few days is a sign that you need to see a doctor," he says.

For most patients, non-surgical treatments can alleviate shoulder pain. "The vast majority of shoulder injuries - whether it's a tendon injury or a fracture - are treated non-operatively," Dr. Naik explains. Treatment often involves immobilization with a sling, followed by physical therapy. "Physical therapy is critical to restoring motion and strength gradually," he says. He also recommends using ice after workouts and heat before activity to ease minor aches and pains. "A little pain reliever also goes a long way if you can tolerate it," Dr. Naik adds.

However, surgery may become necessary when non-operative treatments fail to alleviate symptoms. "Surgery is usually reserved for people who have tried everything - physical therapy, injections, activity modification - and are still in pain," says Dr. Naik. Rotator cuff repairs and shoulder replacements are common surgical procedures, especially when a patient experiences chronic pain or severe functional limitations. Dr. Naik highlights the advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques: "Nowadays, we can do many procedures with a small camera and instruments, which allows for quicker recovery."

Preventing shoulder injuries, particularly in older adults, is crucial to maintaining long-term joint health. "One of the best things people over 65 can do is get a bone density test from their primary care doctor," he advises, as this can help detect osteoporosis early. Additionally, Dr. Naik emphasizes the importance of physical activity to maintain bone and muscle strength: "After a certain age, we start to lose muscle and bone mass, and regular exercise - especially strength training - can help prevent that." Maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular checkups, and controlling conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are other key factors in preventing injuries. "Simple measures go a long way in keeping people healthy," he says.

Ultimately, taking proactive steps to care for the shoulder can prevent long-term complications and ensure a better quality of life. "No one should have to live in pain," he emphasizes. With timely intervention and the right lifestyle choices, patients can often avoid surgery and maintain an active, pain-free life.

For more information about orthopedic services at RWJBarnabas Health, visit www.rwjbh.org/ortho.