Can shoulder pain go away on its own?

Yes, mild pain from overuse can resolve with rest in a few days. But if pain persists more than a week or worsens, a consultation is recommended to prevent the problem from becoming chronic.

Which doctor should I see for shoulder pain?

A specialist in musculoskeletal medicine like Dr Sébastien Bolduc is ideal. He can diagnose the exact cause via ultrasound and offer targeted treatments such as injections or shockwave therapy.

Is shoulder ultrasound reliable for diagnosing tendinitis?

Yes, ultrasound is very reliable for visualizing rotator cuff tendons, the subacromial bursa, and detecting effusions or calcifications. It is the recommended first-line imaging exam.

How long does frozen shoulder last without treatment?

Without treatment, frozen shoulder can last 12 to 18 months through three phases: freezing, frozen, and thawing. Physiotherapy and injections can significantly shorten this duration.

Shoulder Pain: When to Consult a Specialist

Why Is the Shoulder So Vulnerable?

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body, which also makes it particularly vulnerable to injury and wear. Whether you are an athlete, a manual worker, or simply active in daily life, shoulder pain can quickly become debilitating. At the Clinique de médecine musculo-squelettique at 8131 boul. Cousineau, Saint-Hubert, Dr Sébastien Bolduc sees many patients wondering if their pain requires specialized consultation. Here is a guide to help you decide.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. Inflammation or tearing of these tendons is a very common cause of pain, especially during overhead movements or when lifting the arm sideways. Pain is often felt on the side of the arm and may wake you at night.

Subacromial Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa that lubricates the joint. It causes sharp pain when raising the arm, particularly between 60 and 120 degrees. This is called the painful arc. This condition responds very well to ultrasound-guided cortisone injections.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is characterized by progressive stiffness and significant loss of range of motion. The shoulder literally becomes "frozen," making daily tasks like dressing or reaching for an object on a shelf extremely difficult. This condition evolves in three phases over 12 to 18 months.

When Home Care Is Enough

If the pain is mild, appears only after a specific activity, and resolves with rest, you can try ice application, gentle stretching, and relative rest for a few days. Avoid movements that trigger the pain. If the situation improves within 5 to 7 days, a consultation is probably not urgent.

Red Flags

Consult promptly if you have any of these signs: constant pain lasting more than a week despite rest; inability to raise your arm above shoulder level; night pain that wakes you; significant muscle weakness; pain accompanied by fever, redness, or swelling; or a history of major trauma. In these cases, a medical evaluation with ultrasound or MRI may be necessary.

Treatments Available at the Clinic

The clinic offers several treatment options tailored to each condition. For tendinitis and bursitis, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections are very effective. PRP is used for partial rotator cuff tears. Shockwave therapy is indicated for chronic tendinopathies. Finally, physiotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment for frozen shoulder and mild tendinitis. Dr Sébastien Bolduc establishes a personalized plan after a complete evaluation.