I was an Emergency Room Nurse with nearly 16 yrs. experience when I suffered an on the job injury in 1991 - I tried to keep a very large patient from falling - and in doing so, he dislocated my left shoulder and severely strained my neck and back. As a result of the injury, I could no longer provide competent patient care - especially in an Emergency Room setting, and I had to leave the healthcare field.
Subsequently, I saw a number of Orthopedic surgeons for my injuries only to be told that the "problem was between my ears", that is, my problems were psychological, rather than physical. It took 13 years after the accident to find a doctor that had the skills and knowledge to accurately diagnose and treat my injuries.
This doctor was an orthopedic surgeon who specialized in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. She was able to identify a number of injuries to my left shoulder caused by the accident including a torn rotator cuff, and a torn biceps tendon. She had to remove a lot of scar tissue, as well as repair the tissues covering the collarbone and upper arm. This was followed by a year of intensive physical therapy.
As of today, I have almost complete range of motion in my left shoulder, as well as nearly normal strength as compared to my (dominant) right arm. I also have chronic pain that short of the healing touch of Jesus, I'll carry for the rest of my days.
If you haven't already done so, my recommendation is for you to find an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation for evaluation. Shoulder pain can be caused by a number of things, and accurate diagnosis is key to proper treatment. My sympathy? Buddy, you've got it. You also have the story of my own experience, as well as my recommendation for a solution.
Best of luck to you. Please let us know what happens.
Regards,
Dave