Chronic Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder pain is ongoing discomfort in or around the shoulder joint that lasts for several weeks or longer and interferes with daily activities. The pain may be felt deep within the joint, along the upper arm, shoulder blade, or neck, and can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing, or burning sensations.
Unlike short-term shoulder pain caused by a strain or injury, chronic shoulder pain often develops gradually and may worsen over time. It can limit your ability to lift your arm, reach overhead, carry objects, sleep comfortably, or perform routine tasks such as dressing or driving.
Chronic shoulder pain may be caused by joint wear and tear, inflammation, tendon or muscle injury, nerve irritation, or reduced blood flow to the shoulder tissues. In some cases, poor circulation and ongoing inflammation prevent proper healing, allowing pain and stiffness to persist despite rest or conservative treatment.
Identifying the underlying cause of chronic shoulder pain is essential for effective relief. Early evaluation can help restore mobility, reduce pain, and prevent long-term damage to the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues.
At Heart, Vascular & Leg Center, Vinod Kumar, MD, FACC, and his expert team use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the source of your shoulder pain and offer targeted, minimally invasive treatments. Schedule your consultation today.

Symptoms of Chronic Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder pain often develops gradually and may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent aching or sharp pain in the shoulder or upper arm
  • Pain with overhead movement or lifting objects
  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion
  • Weakness in the shoulder or arm
  • Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations when moving the shoulder
  • Pain radiating to the neck, upper back, or arm
  • Difficulty performing daily activities, such as dressing or reaching

If symptoms persist for weeks or interfere with daily function, further evaluation is recommended.

Causes of Chronic Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder pain can result from a combination of structural, inflammatory, and circulation-related factors, including:

  • Rotator cuff injuries or tears
  • Shoulder arthritis
  • Bursitis or tendonitis
  • Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
  • Previous shoulder injury or surgery
  • Repetitive overhead activity or overuse
  • Poor posture or muscle imbalance
  • Nerve compression from the neck or upper spine
  • Inflammatory or autoimmune conditions

In some patients, pain persists despite standard orthopedic treatment, pointing to another contributing factor.

How Chronic Shoulder Pain Can Be a Vascular Condition

Chronic shoulder pain is not always purely orthopedic. The shoulder joint and surrounding muscles rely on healthy blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients necessary for tissue repair. When circulation is reduced or vascular inflammation is present, healing slows and pain can persist.
Poor blood flow can contribute to:

  • Ongoing inflammation
  • Delayed healing of tendons and muscles
  • Stiffness and limited mobility
  • Pain that does not respond fully to rest, therapy, or injections

This vascular component helps explain why some patients continue to experience shoulder pain even after traditional treatments. Identifying circulation-related contributors allows for more comprehensive and lasting relief.

Schedule an Appointment

Book your appointment with Heart Vascular & Leg Center
today for personalized care and advanced treatment.

Treatments for Chronic Shoulder Pain

At Heart, Vascular & Leg Center, treatment focuses on relieving pain, restoring mobility, and addressing both structural and vascular causes of shoulder discomfort. Your personalized care plan may include:

  • Targeted Arterial Micro-Embolization (TAME): A minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces abnormal blood flow driving inflammation in the shoulder, helping relieve chronic pain without surgery.
  • Advanced diagnostic imaging to identify joint, tendon, nerve, and vascular contributors
  • Anti-inflammatory or pain-relief medications when appropriate
  • Physical therapy and guided exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and function
  • Activity modification and posture correction to reduce strain on the shoulder
  • Injection therapies to decrease localized inflammation when indicated
  • Management of underlying conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease

By addressing inflammation at its source and improving circulation, many patients experience meaningful pain relief, improved movement, and a faster return to daily activities.

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Leading Vascular Care Experts

Dr. Vinod Kumar, MD, FACC

Dr. Newton Phuong, MD

Dr. Mark Le, MD

Gerardo Murguia, PA-C

Elsita Mathew, FNP-C

Advanced Vascular Treatments, Trusted Care

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5020 Commerce Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93309

Schedule an Appointment with Heart Vascular and Leg Center

If you’re experiencing symptoms of vascular disease or are at risk for conditions like PAD, don’t wait to seek care. Schedule an appointment with Heart Vascular and Leg Center today. Our specialists will assess your condition and guide you toward the most effective treatment options—whether it’s lifestyle modifications, medication, or advanced minimally invasive procedures. Your vascular health is our priority, and we’re here to help you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. To learn more about our expert care in Bakersfield, CA, or to get started with our team, reach out today.

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Schedule an Appointment

Book your appointment with Heart Vascular & Leg Center
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