Key Takeaways
Shoulder pain has many causes—from injuries and overuse to arthritis—and early evaluation helps prevent long-term damage.
Symptoms like persistent pain, weakness, or limited mobility mean it’s time to see a shoulder specialist.
Accurate diagnosis using physical exams and imaging allows orthopedic specialists to tailor effective treatment plans.
Many causes of shoulder pain can be relieved without surgery through methods such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory care, and regenerative treatments like PRP.
Surgery, including anatomic or reverse shoulder replacement, is recommended when conservative care fails and can significantly restore function and reduce pain.
Shoulder pain affects people across all lifestyles—from athletes to active adults and older adults living with arthritis or joint degeneration.
At CLS Health, our orthopedic specialists help Houston-area patients recover from shoulder injuries and chronic pain through personalized treatment plans. We begin with the least invasive options and progress to advanced surgical solutions, including arthroscopic repair and shoulder replacement, when necessary.
Understanding Shoulder Pain
Common Causes
Shoulder pain can develop from sudden injuries, repetitive or overuse injuries, or gradual wear over time. Common causes include:
- Rotator cuff injuries or tendinitis
- Shoulder arthritis or age-related degeneration
- Bursitis or impingement
- Labral tears or shoulder instability
- Fractures or traumatic injuries
Symptoms That May Need Evaluation
You may need a specialist evaluation if you experience:
- Pain when lifting or rotating your arm
- Shoulder weakness or stiffness that worsens over time or despite self-directed care
- Clicking, popping, or catching sensations with movement
- Pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
Diagnosing the Cause of Shoulder Pain
Our orthopedic team uses advanced tools to identify the exact source of your symptoms.
Diagnosis may include:
- A comprehensive physical exam and shoulder mobility assessment
- X-rays, ultrasound, CT, or MRI to evaluate soft tissue and joint damage
- Specialized orthopedic tests to guide treatment decisions
With early and accurate diagnosis, we can create a more effective and personalized treatment plan that can help prevent chronic problems and more extensive damage.
Nonsurgical Shoulder Pain Treatment
Many causes of shoulder pain can be relieved without surgery. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore strength and function, and prevent further injury using the least invasive methods.
Conservative Care
- Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections to relieve inflammation
- Physical therapy and stretching to improve strength and mobility
Regenerative & Advanced Therapies
These biologic treatments may help promote reduced inflammation and pain:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Uses concentrated platelets to stimulate tissue repair.
- Progenitor (“stem”) Cell Therapy: Supports healing for chronic tendon damage or degenerative conditions.
When Surgery Becomes the Best Option
If pain persists despite nonsurgical treatment, or your shoulder shows signs of advanced damage, surgery to restore joint function may provide long-lasting relief.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
For advanced arthritis, massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears, or severe joint deterioration, shoulder replacement can dramatically reduce pain and restore function.
Types of Shoulder Replacement:
- Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement: This procedure resurfaces the ball and socket, ideal for advanced arthritis with intact rotator cuff muscles or reparable rotator cuff injuries. This surgery is better for younger or more physically demanding people.
- Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: Designed for patients with advanced arthritis, usually with irreparable rotator cuff damage, this procedure switches the ball and socket, allowing people to move their shoulders even in the absence of a functional rotator cuff; offers early return to independent use of the arm
Recovery After Shoulder Surgery
What to Expect After Surgery
Most patients return home the same day or the following day. Recovery includes:
- Pain control
- A period of rest and sling use
- Gradual progression into guided physical therapy
Shoulder Replacement Recovery Timeline
- Weeks 1–6: Light motion and incision healing, arm rest in a sling
- Weeks 6–12: Strengthening and increased active motion of the arm
- 3–6 months: Most patients achieve near-full recovery, though full strength may take a little longer
Long-Term Outcomes
Most individuals regain significant pain relief, better mobility, and improved quality of life. Heavy lifting may be limited depending on the procedure.
Shoulder Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is essential for full recovery after injury or surgery. Rehab focuses on:
- Increasing range of motion
- Strengthening the rotator cuff and supporting muscles
- Improving shoulder stability and mechanics
- Preventing future injuries through posture and movement training
When to See a Shoulder Specialist in Houston
If shoulder pain is limiting your movement, sleep, or activity level—or if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks—it’s time to see a specialist. A thorough and accurate evaluation of your shoulder problems is essential to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to restore your quality of life.
Choose a Shoulder Specialist Near You
If you’re searching for a trusted shoulder specialist in Houston, CLS Health offers expert orthopedic care across our Clear Lake, Sugar Land, and Pasadena locations.
Our experienced orthopedic and sports medicine team provides advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive care for shoulder pain, injuries, and chronic conditions.
Schedule Your Shoulder Pain Evaluation
Don’t let shoulder pain limit your movement or quality of life. Whether you need targeted physical therapy, regenerative care, or advanced shoulder replacement surgery, our orthopedic team will help you return to a pain-free, active lifestyle.
Interested in shoulder pain treatment? Schedule an appointment with CLS Health today.