Seeking Guidance on Possible Shoulder Injury
Hello r/AskDocs, I’m a 32-year-old female dealing with persistent discomfort in my right shoulder that began in February 2025. As we enter September, I finally underwent an arthrogram MRI with contrast. I’ve been informed that it will take at least a week before I can expect results from a general physician. After that, I will need to schedule a consultation with a specialist, which could take several months to arrange. In the meantime, I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice from you all. Thank you very much for your help!
Answers (1)
9/5/2025, 9:50:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for reaching out about your shoulder discomfort. It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with the wait for your MRI results, and I’m glad to offer some support and guidance in the interim.
Main Points:
- Persistent shoulder discomfort can stem from various issues, including muscle strains, tendinitis, or joint-related problems.
- While waiting for results, it's important to focus on symptom management and gentle care.
Explanation:
Shoulder pain can be caused by many factors, such as overuse, injury, or underlying conditions like arthritis or rotator cuff tears. The fact that you’re experiencing persistent discomfort means monitoring your symptoms and taking steps to manage your pain effectively is important.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Rest and Modify Activities: Avoid movements that worsen your shoulder pain. If certain activities exacerbate your symptoms, try to modify or eliminate them where possible.
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Apply Ice or Heat: Use ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation, especially if there's swelling. Alternatively, try heat packs to relieve muscle tension, but only if it feels comforting.
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Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Start with gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility. Simple exercises like pendulum swings (letting your arm hang and gently swinging it) can help. Avoid any movements that aggravate your pain.
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Pain Relief Options: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions on the OTC medication.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Note any changes in your shoulder pain, including when it worsens or improves with certain activities. This can be helpful for your physician or specialist later.
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Prepare for Your Specialist Appointment: Once you receive your MRI results, list any questions or specific concerns to discuss with your specialist. This preparation can help maximize the value of your appointment.
While the wait for your results can be frustrating, taking these steps can help you manage your discomfort. Remember that listening to your body is crucial, so focus on what feels best for your shoulder.
If the pain worsens significantly, or if you notice symptoms like swelling, redness, or inability to use your arm, please consider reaching out for immediate evaluation. Take care!
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