DEAR DR. GOTT:
My husband is 81 years old. He has pain in his arm and up into the shoulder area.
Our family doctor said the tendon has broken off the shoulder blade and the bicep muscle has dropped. We were told there is nothing that can be done to fix it. I want to know if there is anything that can be done to relieve the constant ache my husband has as a result of it.
DEAR READER:
I urge your husband to be seen by an orthopedic specialist. This type of specialist can test your husband for a proper diagnosis and offer treatment options. If the tendon has truly broken off, surgical repair may be beneficial. While family physicians are knowledgeable in a wide variety of disorders, in this instance, your husband really needs to see the specialist.
As for pain relief while awaiting an appointment, I suggest your husband try anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. Applying hot or cold compresses may also help.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Managing Chronic Pain”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
About Dr. Gott