Shoulder Pain Treatment in San Antonio, TX

Shoulder pain can make even the simplest tasks—like reaching overhead, carrying groceries, or sleeping on your side—feel impossible. At Spine Center of Texas, we understand how frustrating and limiting shoulder pain can be. Our specialists focus on non-invasive and minimally invasive solutions first, so you can regain strength, restore mobility, and get back to living comfortably. Whether your pain is new or chronic, our experienced team in San Antonio is here to help.

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can vary widely depending on the cause, but some of the most common symptoms include:

A dull ache or sharp pain in the shoulder joint
Stiffness or loss of range of motion
Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
Pain that worsens with overhead movement or when lying on the affected side
Tingling or numbness that may radiate into the arm

If your symptoms last more than a few days, interfere with sleep, or limit your ability to do everyday tasks, it may be time to see a specialist.

What Causes Shoulder Pain

Because the shoulder is one of the most flexible joints in the body, it is especially vulnerable to injury and strain. Shoulder pain can develop from overuse, such as repetitive motions at work or during sports, or from sudden trauma that leads to fractures or dislocations. In some patients, conditions like rotator cuff tears, bursitis, or tendonitis cause irritation and weakness, making daily activities difficult.

Arthritis in the shoulder can gradually wear down the cartilage and lead to stiffness and inflammation, while frozen shoulder restricts movement so severely that even simple tasks become challenging. In other cases, pain may be the result of pinched nerves that radiate discomfort into the arm. Because so many conditions can affect the shoulder, we need an accurate diagnosis to create an effective treatment plan.

Shoulder Pain Treatments

Relief from shoulder pain often starts with manageable care and progresses to more advanced options if needed.

At-Home Relief

For mild shoulder pain, you may find relief through simple self-care methods. Rest and avoid movements that worsen the pain. Consider applying ice or heat packs to the affected area. Gentle stretching or range-of-motion exercises can also help maintain flexibility. In some cases, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may work, but ask us or your primary doctor first.

Professional Shoulder Care

If pain persists or worsens, the specialists at the Spine Center of Texas can provide advanced treatment options. Depending on your condition, you may benefit from prescription medications to reduce pain and inflammation, or physical therapy to restore movement and strengthen the shoulder. For targeted relief, corticosteroid or intra-articular injections may be recommended. Minimally invasive procedures, such as nerve ablation, are available when appropriate. In severe cases, surgical solutions — including rotator cuff repair or joint replacement — may be the best option for lasting relief.

Our treatment plans are created with your needs and lifestyle in mind, with surgery reserved only for cases where other treatments aren’t enough.

Questions About Shoulder Pain

When should I see a doctor for shoulder pain?

If your pain lasts longer than a week, limits your ability to move your arm, or is the result of an injury, it’s best to see a doctor. Sudden, severe pain or visible deformity should be treated immediately.

Can shoulder pain heal on its own?

Some minor strains or overuse injuries may improve with rest and home care. However, persistent or worsening shoulder pain often requires professional evaluation to prevent long-term damage.

What’s the difference between shoulder arthritis and a rotator cuff injury?

Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage in the shoulder joint, leading to stiffness and pain. A rotator cuff injury, on the other hand, affects the muscles and tendons that stabilize the joint, often causing weakness and difficulty lifting the arm.

Will my insurance cover treatment?

Coverage depends on your plan and the type of treatment needed. At Spine Center of Texas, we accept all major insurance providers and can help verify your benefits before we dive into care.

Our Process

When you visit Spine Center of Texas for shoulder pain, here’s what you can expect:

1. Schedule your appointment — Call our office or use our convenient online form.

2. Comprehensive evaluation — We’ll review your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and order imaging if needed.

3. Personalized treatment plan — We’ll recommend the least invasive options first and adjust care as needed.

4. Follow-up care — We’ll monitor your progress and adapt your treatment to ensure the best possible results.

Insurance and Payment

We accept all major insurance plans. Since coverage varies, our staff will confirm your benefits before treatment begins. For patients who need flexible payment solutions, our online portal makes it easy to track your balance and pay on a schedule that works for you.

Contact Spine Center of Texas

Shoulder pain doesn’t have to control your life. With expert care and advanced treatments, Spine Center of Texas can help you move more freely and live more comfortably. Call us today or schedule your appointment online to get started.