Seeking an MRI for Persistent Shoulder Pain?
A 24-year-old woman diagnosed with von Willebrand Disease (VWD) and Celiac Disease maintains an exceptionally clean diet, focusing on whole, organic foods. She has no history of heavy lifting or traumatic events such as car accidents. For over five years, she has experienced shoulder discomfort, undergoing extensive evaluations including blood tests, X-rays, physical therapy, and consultations with a psychiatrist, all of whom have remarked, "This is an interesting case," yet none have been able to determine the cause of her pain. Despite her persistent requests for an MRI, healthcare providers prefer to exhaust all possible options beforehand. Initially, the pain was mild, but it has progressively intensified to the point where there are days when using her shoulder becomes extraordinarily challenging. On bad days, her pain reaches an intensity level of 8 out of 10, while on better days, it hovers around 3.5. Although a simple arm pop once alleviated her symptoms, she now endures a throbbing and stabbing sensation that radiates from her shoulder to her bicep, significantly impacting her ability to sleep and perform daily activities. In the past, she could achieve rapid relief by popping her shoulder, but that reprieve seems elusive as the years have passed. Despite trying both heat and cold therapy, she has found no improvement. She diligently stretches twice daily and avoids activities that could strain her shoulder. Initially, treatments like Lidocaine and tiger balm provided some comfort, but they have recently begun to irritate her shoulder instead, exacerbating the pain. Her hematology specialists do not believe that her VWD plays a role in her symptoms. Frustration mounts as she, along with multiple physicians, remains at a loss regarding the nature and source of her ongoing discomfort. The mystery of her shoulder pain only deepens, leaving her feeling bewildered and desperate for answers. 😓
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 7:10:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel frustrated and overwhelmed by your persistent shoulder pain, especially after undergoing numerous evaluations and not finding the answers you need. Given the details you've shared, your situation involves complex factors, including a long history of pain, previous treatments that have lost effectiveness, and the unique conditions of von Willebrand Disease and Celiac Disease.
Explanation
Chronic shoulder pain, especially when not linked to specific injuries or structural abnormalities, can stem from a variety of causes such as tendinitis, bursitis, rotator cuff issues, or even nerve involvement. The absence of findings in previous evaluations, combined with the complexity of your medical background, can complicate the path to understanding and managing your pain.
Next Steps
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a detailed diary of your pain experiences. Note when it worsens or improves, specific activities that may trigger it, and any other associated symptoms like numbness or weakness. This can help identify patterns and guide discussions with healthcare providers.
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Seek Specialist Care: If you haven’t done so already, consider consulting a sports medicine physician or an orthopedic specialist. Their focus on musculoskeletal issues may provide a different perspective.
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Physical Therapy Re-evaluation: Since you've already undergone physical therapy, a re-evaluation may be beneficial. A therapist specializing in chronic pain management or shoulder conditions might tailor a new approach that considers both physical techniques and your experiences.
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Consider Imaging: While initial healthcare providers may prefer conservative treatments first, advocating for an MRI can be crucial. Be clear about how the intensity of your pain affects your daily life and ask if they can provide rationale for imaging to rule out specific concerns like tears or nerve compression that may not be visible on X-rays.
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Pain Management Options: Discuss other pain management strategies with your healthcare provider. Options may include guided injections, corrective posture training, alternative therapies such as acupuncture, or even biofeedback techniques to help manage pain perceptions.
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Mental Health Support: Given the emotional toll chronic pain can take, consider engaging with a mental health professional who specializes in chronic pain. This can provide coping strategies and support.
Final Thoughts
The journey to relief can be long and demanding, but considering these steps may help clarify your situation and guide you toward improved management of your shoulder pain. Each adjustment you make is a step toward resilience and better functionality in your daily life. If you have questions or need further clarification on any of the suggestions, feel free to ask.
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