Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints among adults and athletes alike. For many, the discomfort comes and goes, often improving with rest, ice, or over-the-counter medications. But when pain becomes persistent, interferes with your daily activities, or worsens over time, it may be a sign of a more serious condition.
I’m Dr. Michael Del Core, a shoulder surgeon in Omaha, Nebraska, and Council Bluffs, Iowa, specializing in advanced treatments for shoulder injuries and conditions. Patients often ask me: “How do I know when it’s time to see a shoulder specialist?” In this blog, I’ll break down the warning signs you shouldn’t ignore and explain why early evaluation can make a big difference in your recovery.
🚨 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
1. Persistent Shoulder Pain
If your pain lasts longer than a few weeks or doesn’t improve with conservative care (rest, activity modification, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories), it may be time to see a specialist. Persistent pain can be linked to conditions like rotator cuff tears, arthritis, or labral injuries.
2. Weakness or Loss of Strength
Difficulty lifting your arm, carrying groceries, or even performing overhead motions can signal a rotator cuff tear or nerve involvement. If weakness develops suddenly—especially after an injury—it’s important to see a shoulder surgeon right away.
3. Limited Range of Motion
If you find it hard to raise your arm, reach behind your back, or perform daily tasks, you may be experiencing frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), arthritis, or a structural tear. Early treatment can restore mobility and help prevent long-term stiffness.
4. Shoulder Instability or Recurrent Dislocations
Athletes, particularly those in football, wrestling, or baseball, often experience shoulder instability. If your shoulder feels like it’s “slipping out of place” or has dislocated more than once, surgical evaluation may be necessary to stabilize the joint and protect against further injury.
5. Nighttime Pain
Pain that wakes you up at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder, is often a hallmark of rotator cuff pathology. Since sleep is essential for healing, nighttime pain is a strong indicator that you should see a surgeon.
6. Recent Injury with Ongoing Symptoms
A fall, sports injury, or car accident that leaves you with swelling, bruising, or persistent pain should be evaluated quickly. Traumatic injuries can cause fractures, tendon ruptures, or labral tears that worsen if not treated early.
🩺 Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Delaying treatment can make shoulder injuries more complex to repair. For example, rotator cuff tears may enlarge over time, making surgery more challenging and recovery longer. Similarly, untreated instability can lead to early arthritis.
As a shoulder specialist serving Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa, I use advanced diagnostic tools—including MRI, ultrasound, and physical examination—to create personalized treatment plans. Many patients improve with non-surgical care such as physical therapy, injections, and activity modifications, but when surgery is needed, minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques or advanced reconstruction options are available.
🌟 Why Patients in Omaha & Council Bluffs Trust Dr. Michael Del Core
- Fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon with expertise in complex cases.
- Serving patients across Omaha, NE and Council Bluffs, IA with compassionate, patient-centered care.
- Skilled in both non-surgical and surgical treatments, from rotator cuff repair to shoulder replacement.
- Focused on helping patients return to their work, sports, and active lifestyles as quickly and safely as possible.
✅ Take the Next Step
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, weakness, or limited motion, don’t wait until your condition worsens. As your shoulder surgeon in Omaha and Council Bluffs, I’m here to help you find answers and solutions.
📍 Convenient Locations: Omaha, NE & Council Bluffs, IA
📞 Schedule Your Consultation Today: 402-390-4111 at MD West ONE
