What department should I visit for shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can be caused by various factors, including but not limited to rotator cuff injury, shoulder arthritis, subacromial impingement syndrome, cervical spondylosis, and others. Therefore, the choice of medical department should be determined based on the specific circumstances of the pain.

1. Orthopedics: Shoulder pain caused by most muscular, skeletal, or joint problems, such as rotator cuff tear, shoulder dislocation, and fractures, can be treated by orthopedics. In orthopedics, a detailed medical history and physical examination will be conducted to determine the location, nature, duration of the pain, and accompanying symptoms. Additionally, patients may be advised to undergo necessary imaging examinations, such as X-ray, CT, or MRI, to further clarify the cause and severity of the pain.

2. Rheumatology and Immunology: If shoulder pain is accompanied by symptoms such as multi-joint pain, morning stiffness, and fatigue, it may indicate a rheumatic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. In this case, a visit to the rheumatology and immunology department should be considered.

3. Neurology/Neurosurgery: When shoulder pain occurs together with neck discomfort, arm numbness, or muscle weakness, it could be caused by cervical spondylosis or other neurological disorders. It is recommended to visit the neurology or neurosurgery department for evaluation.

4. Cardiology: If shoulder pain is accompanied by cardiac discomfort or angina symptoms, it is advisable to also consult a cardiologist.