Shoulder & Elbow

The shoulder is a complex joint with a wide range of motion. Three main bones form the shoulder joint: the humerus (the long arm bone), the clavicle (collarbone), and the scapula (shoulder blade). The elbow is classified as a hinge-type synovial joint.  It is the point of articulation for three bones: the humerus (the long arm bone), the radius and ulna (the two forearm bones). The supporting muscles and tendons work in concert to provide strength and range of motion.

Shoulder and elbow pain can occur for many reasons: overuse, arthritis, postural imbalance, inflammation, tendonitis, tendon injury, rotator cuff injury, instability, and fracture. It is common for shoulder dysfunction to cause referred pain into the neck or down the arm, and cause sleep disturbance due to pain. Elbow pain will commonly cause pain radiating down the forearm and can affect simple daily activities such as lifting, carrying, and gripping.

Many conditions of the shoulder and elbow can be treated with rest, medication, injections, and physical therapy. However, sometimes surgery can be indicated. An evaluation for shoulder pain will commonly consist of a detailed history, physical examination, x-rays, and possibly an MRI.  Your doctor will determine what treatment is best suited for you.