Nonsurgical treatments for shoulder pain

Many shoulder conditions may be effectively addressed through some combination of nonsurgical treatment, such as activity modification or immobilization, corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, icing or heating, and physical therapy or exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Non-displaced fractures, which occur when broken bones stay in the correct position (about 80 percent of shoulder fractures), are commonly treated nonsurgically, with icing, immobilization in a sling or wrap, pain medications, and eventually physical therapy.

Penn Medicine’s shoulder pain care team is highly capable and prepared whenever surgery is necessary, but they are committed to the best possible treatment—one that honors the patient’s goals and preferences. If sufficient relief and improved function can be achieved with shoulder pain therapy that doesn’t include surgery, that’s a win. We offer a wide range of nonsurgical options for shoulder pain, as well as highly effective pain management protocols to minimize or avoid opioid usage. With multiple locations throughout the southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey regions, you can access Penn Medicine’s comprehensive care close to home.

You may also benefit from access to specialists in centers and programs throughout the Penn Medicine system that your provider can consult and collaborate with in devising a plan that’s right for you. For example, our Regenerative Medicine and Orthobiologics program, offers innovative nonsurgical therapies, including platelet-rich plasma injections to leverage the body’s own healing capabilities.