Top Questions to Ask Your Orthopedic Doctor About Shoulder Pain

Visiting an orthopedic doctor for shoulder pain can be overwhelming, but being prepared can make a significant difference in your care. Shoulder pain is a common issue, affecting millions of people and often limiting their ability to perform daily activities. Understanding the right questions to ask can help you get a clear diagnosis, explore all treatment options, and set realistic expectations for recovery.

This guide will provide you with essential questions to discuss with your orthopedic doctor, empowering you to take an active role in your health journey.

Having a list of questions ready for your orthopedic doctor is crucial for understanding your shoulder pain and treatment options. In this blog, we will cover questions to ask your doctor, including questions related to the following:

• Diagnosis and Cause. Ask what is causing your shoulder pain and what the specific diagnosis is.
• Treatment Options. Inquire about all possible treatments, from non-surgical methods like physical therapy to surgical interventions.
• Recovery and Outlook. Understand the recovery process, what to expect long-term, and how to prevent future issues.

What is the Specific Diagnosis for My Shoulder Pain?

Your first step is to understand exactly what is wrong. Ask your orthopedic doctor to explain the diagnosis in simple terms. Is it a rotator cuff tear, bursitis, arthritis, tendonitis, or something else? Knowing the specific condition is the foundation for your treatment plan.

You should also ask what may have caused the condition. Was it due to an injury, overuse from repetitive motions, or a degenerative condition that developed over time? Understanding the cause can help you and your orthopedic doctor create a strategy to prevent the pain from worsening or recurring.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Once you have a diagnosis, the next step is to discuss treatment. It is important to explore all available avenues, from conservative approaches to more invasive procedures.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Always ask about non-surgical options first. These treatments are often the first line of defense and can be very effective. Ask your doctor about the following:

• Physical therapy: Focused exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support joint health, tailored to individual needs.
• Medications: Includes anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
• Injections: Cortisone shots or other treatments like PRP therapy are used to directly target inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief.
• Activity modification and rest: Adjusting daily activities to avoid strain on affected areas and allowing the body time to heal.

Surgical Treatments

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be an option. If your orthopedic doctor recommends surgery, you will want to gather as much information as possible. Finding an experienced orthopedic surgeon is a priority for many patients considering this step. Ask your surgeon:

• What specific surgical procedure is recommended for me?
• What are the potential risks and benefits of the surgery?
• What is the success rate for this procedure?
• Is this an inpatient or outpatient procedure?

What Does the Recovery Process Look Like?

Understanding the recovery timeline is essential for planning your life after treatment, especially if surgery is involved. Ask your orthopedic doctor for a detailed overview of what to expect.

Knowing what is ahead can help you prepare mentally and physically. Key questions include:

• How long will the recovery period last?
• Will I need to wear a sling, and for how long?
• When can I return to work and daily activities?
• What will physical therapy involve after surgery?

What is My Long-Term Prognosis?

Finally, discuss the long-term outlook for your shoulder. You want to know what your life will look like after you have completed treatment and recovered.

Ask your orthopedic doctor about the likelihood of a full recovery and if you can expect to regain full strength and range of motion. Inquire about any long-term lifestyle changes you might need to make to protect your shoulder and prevent future injuries.

Finding an orthopedic clinic for follow-up care can also be a part of this long-term plan.

Orthopedic Doctor in Little Rock, AR

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, seeking a consultation with an experienced orthopedic doctor is the first step toward relief.

Our board-certified expert, Dr. Bill Hefley, and his team are dedicated to providing expert diagnoses and personalized treatment plans for a wide range of orthopedic conditions.

At our clinic in Little Rock, AR, we take a holistic approach to treating shoulder pain. This means looking beyond just the symptoms and addressing any underlying issues contributing to your discomfort. Our team is trained in both conservative and surgical interventions, so you can trust that we will provide the best treatment plan for your unique situation.

Contact us today at (800) 336-2412 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule an appointment and begin your journey to recovery.