Don't Ignore Shoulder or Elbow Pain: Know the Causes and When to Get Checked

By: dr. Jefri Sukmawan, Sp.OT, Subsp.O.B.S(K), Shoulder and Elbow Orthopedic Specialist

Shoulder or elbow pain is often dismissed as a minor issue. Pain may arise after strenuous activity, heavy lifting, exercise, or even prolonged periods in a specific position, leading us to believe that rest alone is sufficient.
However, do all shoulder and elbow pains truly resolve on their own?
Below is an explanation regarding some of the shoulder and elbow conditions patients ask about most frequently.

What exactly causes shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain is not a diagnosis in itself but rather a symptom that can originate from tendons, bursae, joint surfaces, or nerves. Triggers can range from repetitive overhead activities, sudden heavy lifting, falls, and sleeping on the affected side to years of gradual wear and tear.

“If I’m just experiencing pain, do I need to see a doctor immediately?”
Not necessarily. For mild symptoms, you can first try relative rest, avoiding movements that trigger the pain, applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes after activity, and performing gentle movements. However, if the pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks, interferes with sleep, is accompanied by noticeable weakness, or follows a fall, you should seek a medical examination.

“Why is my shoulder becoming increasingly difficult to move?”

One possibility is frozen shoulder. This condition occurs when the capsule surrounding the joint becomes inflamed, then thickens and tightens, progressively limiting shoulder movement.

“Can frozen shoulder resolve on its own?”

Most cases can recover, though the process may be lengthy. Gentle, gradual stretching is a key part of management. Structured physiotherapy forms the foundation of treatment, while corticosteroid injections or hydrodilatation may be considered in certain cases. Surgery is required only for a small number of patients who continue to experience significant stiffness despite consistent conservative treatment.

“If my shoulder feels weak, could I have a torn tendon?”

That possibility needs to be evaluated. A rotator cuff tear can occur due to injury—particularly in young, active individuals—or develop gradually through wear and tear in people over the age of 50.

“Do all rotator cuff tears require surgery?”

No. Many tears can be managed with physiotherapy, especially specific types of tears and in patients with lower activity demands. Surgery is considered based on the size of the tear, muscle quality, age, activity level, and the impact on daily function.

It’s Not Just the Shoulder—The Elbow Can Have Issues Too

If pain arises when gripping, lifting objects, or performing repetitive activities, do not jump to the conclusion that sports are the cause.

“Does tennis elbow only affect people who play tennis?”

No. In fact, the majority of people with tennis elbow do not play tennis. This condition is linked to repetitive strain on the tendons on the outer side of the elbow and can affect individuals who frequently type, use tools, perform manual labor, or engage in repetitive gripping motions.

“If I have tennis elbow, is surgery required?”

No. The primary treatment is a structured, progressive tendon-strengthening program combined with activity modification. Surgery is generally considered a last resort when consistent conservative treatment over 6–12 months fails to yield adequate results.

“So, how does it differ from golfer's elbow?”

While tennis elbow affects the outer side of the elbow, golfer's elbow involves the tendons on the inner side. Furthermore, this condition is not limited to golfers; activities such as gripping, wrist flexion, forearm rotation, throwing sports, and manual labor can all trigger it.

When Should You No Longer Wait to Address Shoulder or Elbow Pain?

Ultimately, the most important question is not just "What is the condition?" but "When should I get examined?"
Persistent pain, weakness, disruptions to sleep or daily activities, a history of falls or impacts, numbness and tingling, and even changes in the shape of the shoulder or arm are signs that require attention. Immediate medical evaluation is necessary for conditions such as dislocations or fractures.

“Do all shoulder and elbow problems require surgery?”

The answer is no.
Many conditions can be managed through activity modification, physical therapy, specific medications, or other non-surgical treatments. Surgery is only considered in certain situations—particularly when there are structural issues or symptoms fail to improve despite appropriate conservative treatment.

Since every condition has a unique cause and progression, reading health information cannot replace an in-person examination. If your shoulder or elbow symptoms resemble the conditions described above, an examination by an orthopedic specialist can help determine the diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

“When Should You Consult a Specialist?”

Consult the Orthosports Wellness Center at RS Premier Bintaro immediately if you experience shoulder or elbow pain. Early treatment is crucial to prevent further damage and avoid the need for surgery.
 

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