How can shoulder pain be treated?
Patient: I believe there are a couple problems with my left shoulder. The left shoulder is elevated higher than my right, I am unable to flex my left trap, my rotator cuff may be injured/torn, and I have a minor pain when in my left shoulder blade when I pinch them together. This may be due to my injured rotator cuff. I can flex my right trap, but not on the left. I have tried multiple stretches, but I need more insight as to how I can fix this. Thanks. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.The pain in your shoulder and decreased rate of motion to your arm might be related to rotator cuff injury.The severity of the injury might be from a strain of the muscle or tendon of the rotator cuff, to a partial or complete tear of one of the rotator muscles.The symptoms may be due to fluid accumulation or calcium deposit within the shoulder joint.To diagnose a rotator cuff problem you need to perform a X-ray to find any joint spurs, MRI is the test of choice for shoulder problems  also ultrasound might be used to diagnose problems pf the tendons and muscles.You can use Naproxen daily and Tylenol for pain relief, because only physical therapy isn't always enough for pain managment.Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.