Chronic Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder pain can be challenging because the shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body. Pain may come from several different structures, including the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, glenohumeral (shoulder) joint, subacromial bursa, or the rotator cuff tendons and muscles. Because these structures work closely together, shoulder pain can be difficult to pinpoint without a careful physical exam and proper imaging. At Interventional Pain Specialists of Wisconsin, we take the time to identify the exact source of pain so treatment can be targeted and effective.

We offer a wide range of image-guided interventional treatments to help reduce shoulder pain and improve function. Steroid injections into the shoulder joint, AC joint, or subacromial bursa can help calm inflammation and relieve pain, especially during flare-ups. For patients looking for longer-term or biologic treatment options, we provide advanced regenerative orthobiologic therapies. These include platelet-rich plasma (PRP), alpha-2 macroglobulin (A2M), bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), and prolotherapy, depending on the type and severity of shoulder damage. These therapies use the body’s own healing mechanisms to help reduce inflammation, support tissue repair, and improve joint health.

For patients with persistent shoulder pain that does not improve with injections or regenerative therapies, we also offer nerve-based treatments. Radiofrequency ablation can be used to reduce pain signals coming from irritated shoulder nerves, while peripheral nerve stimulation offers another option for chronic pain by gently interrupting pain signals over time without damaging the nerve. All procedures are performed with precise image guidance using ultrasound or fluoroscopy by our double board-certified physicians in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine, ensuring accuracy, safety, and individualized care.

Our goal is to help patients reduce pain, restore function, and avoid unnecessary surgery whenever possible. By combining careful diagnosis, advanced imaging, regenerative medicine, and minimally invasive interventional techniques, we provide comprehensive shoulder pain care designed to get patients back to work, activity, and the life they enjoy.