Is It Acute or Chronic Shoulder Pain?

Understanding the nature of shoulder pain, whether it is acute or chronic, is essential in determining the appropriate treatment and management strategies. Differentiating between the two types of pain can help healthcare professionals at Relief Now Laser Gaithersburg design tailored treatment plans to address each patient's specific needs effectively.

Acute Shoulder Pain:

Acute shoulder pain typically occurs suddenly and is often associated with a specific incident or injury. Some common characteristics of acute shoulder pain include:

1. Sudden Onset: Acute pain in the shoulder develops rapidly, often following a specific event or trauma, such as a fall, sports injury, or accident.
2. Intense Pain: The pain is sharp, intense, and may be accompanied by swelling and bruising around the affected area.
3. Limited Duration: Acute shoulder pain is temporary and usually lasts for a short period, generally up to six weeks, as the body heals from the injury.
4. Clearly Identifiable Trigger: Patients can often pinpoint the exact event or activity that caused the shoulder pain.

Chronic Shoulder Pain:

Chronic shoulder pain, on the other hand, persists over an extended period, lasting beyond six weeks, and may have a gradual or insidious onset. Key characteristics of chronic shoulder pain include:

1. Persistent Discomfort: Chronic pain in the shoulder is ongoing and may fluctuate in intensity but does not fully resolve on its own.
2. Dull and Constant Pain: The pain is often described as a dull ache and may be accompanied by stiffness and reduced range of motion.
3. Impact on Daily Activities: Chronic shoulder pain can significantly interfere with daily activities and may affect sleep, work, and recreational pursuits.
4. Underlying Conditions: Chronic shoulder pain can be linked to underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis, tendinitis, or bursitis.
5. Past Injuries: It can also result from unresolved acute injuries that did not heal properly or were not adequately treated.

At Relief Now Laser Gaithersburg, our experienced healthcare professionals conduct a thorough evaluation to determine whether shoulder pain is acute or chronic. Based on this assessment, they recommend a personalized treatment plan, which may include Class IV laser therapy, to alleviate pain, promote healing, and improve shoulder function.

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