December’s Lunch and Learn session at McMinnville Civic Center next Wednesday at noon will focus on possible causes and available treatment options for shoulder pain.
This month’s informative meeting, set for Dec. 21, is sponsored by McMinnville Parks and Recreation with Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Dr. Brian Peterson will be the guest speaker.
The shoulder is the most moveable joint in the body, resulting in overuse and a variety of shoulder joint problems. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, close to 4 million Americans seek medical care each year for shoulder pain-related problems.
During the presentation, Dr. Petersen will discuss the structure of the shoulder and many common causes of shoulder pain, including arthritis, dislocation, rotator cuff injury, tendonitis, and more. He will also discuss the treatment methods available through River Park Hospital and Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Symptoms that need medical attention:
• Inability to carry objects or use the arm
• Injury that causes deformity of the joint
• Shoulder pain that occurs at night or while resting
• Shoulder pain that persists beyond a few days
• Inability to raise the arm
• Swelling or significant bruising around the joint or arm
• Signs of an infection, including fever, redness, warmth
When in doubt about shoulder pain, see a doctor. Dr. Petersen says shoulder pain is very common.
“Shoulder pain is a very common complaint we see at the office,” he said. “There is a wide variety of common causes of the pain, so it’s important to get an expert opinion of your symptoms and an accurate diagnosis.”
Lunch and Learn sessions on different topics are held every other month at McMinnville Civic Center. Sessions are free and primarily sponsored by the city of McMinnville through Parks and Recreation, so bring a lunch and learn.
For more information, contact Kristie Sanders at 473-1212.
Dr. Peterson to discuss shoulder pain

