Shoulder pain: exploring nonsurgical options

Originally published June 19, 2019 · Adapted October 27, 2026

Shoulder pain may interfere with reaching, swimming, throwing, lifting, or sleep. The rotator cuff and other shoulder structures can be involved in different ways. A diagnosis helps determine which options are reasonable.

Prepare a useful history

Explain when the problem started, whether there was an injury, and whether you notice weakness, stiffness, catching, or difficulty raising the arm. Bring prior treatment notes and imaging requested by the office.

Review nonsurgical care

Depending on the condition, options may include activity changes, an individualized exercise or rehabilitation program, medicines, or an injection. A tear’s size and characteristics, the examination, your goals, and your response to prior care can affect whether orthopedic evaluation is needed.

Where does PRP fit?

Ask about evidence for the exact shoulder diagnosis and how PRP compares with other choices. A rotator cuff tear, tendon concern, and joint arthritis are not interchangeable conditions. Do not assume that a regenerative procedure can close every tear or remove the need for surgery.

Build the recovery discussion around your activity

Ask which activities to modify, how rehabilitation fits, when progress will be checked, and what findings would change the plan. If you have a proposed procedure and want to understand it better, bring the recommendation to a second-opinion consultation.

Patient information: AAOS rotator cuff patient guide ↗. Evidence and suitability depend on the individual condition.

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