Unexpected Pain in Previously Injured Shoulder After Six Months
I'm a 16-year-old male, standing at 5'3" and weighing 72 kilograms. On September 28, 2024, I dislocated my shoulder while sleeping. After seeking medical attention, the doctor mentioned there was insufficient fluid in the joint, although I didn't fully understand the details. Initially, I managed to heal enough that it became a non-issue for about three months. However, recently, I've started experiencing discomfort and occasional pain without any apparent reason. I mentioned this to my parents, but they attributed it to my clothing and criticized my lack of physical activity. Now, I'm uncertain whether I should consult a doctor again. To alleviate some tension, I've been doing daily stretches and trying to maintain movement in the shoulder.
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 2:01:10 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about sudden discomfort in your shoulder, especially after previously dislocating it. While it’s possible to have some residual effects from the injury, experiencing new pain six months later merits attention. Let's break down what might be happening and what steps you can take.
Main Points:
- New shoulder pain after a recent dislocation could be due to several factors, such as tendinitis, muscle strain, or joint instability.
- Monitoring your symptoms and adjusting your activity level are important first steps.
Explanation:
After dislocating your shoulder, the soft tissues around the joint, including ligaments and muscles, can become weak or irritated. Insufficient fluid in the joint (possibly referring to synovial fluid) might also contribute to discomfort. The fact that you're feeling pain now, months later, suggests that your body may be reacting to changes in the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues.
Your efforts in stretching and keeping the shoulder mobile are good practices; however, if pain continues or worsens, you may need to reassess your approach rather than attributing it to clothing or lack of activity.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any activities that seem to worsen the discomfort. This information can be helpful if you consult a healthcare professional later.
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Modify Activities: Continue with gentle stretching, but listen to your body. Avoid any movements that provoke pain and take breaks to rest your shoulder throughout the day.
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Cold Therapy: Consider using ice packs on your shoulder for 15-20 minutes at a time, a few times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
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Gentle Strengthening: After you feel comfortable with basic stretching, gradually introduce light strengthening exercises. Focus on small, controlled movements aimed at stabilizing the shoulder.
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Reassess and Seek Help: If pain persists, increases, or affects your daily activities, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They can assess your shoulder's condition and possibly recommend imaging studies if necessary.
Please remember that it’s important to take your symptoms seriously, and you should engage in open conversations with your parents about what you're experiencing. Your health is a priority—don't hesitate to seek support for it.
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