Shoulder Pain: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

• Overuse or repetitive motion:Activities like lifting, throwing, or working overhead can strain shoulder muscles and tendons.
• Poor posture:Slouching or improper sitting positions can put stress on the shoulder joint.
• Sleeping in an awkward position:Can cause temporary shoulder stiffness or pain.
• Carrying heavy bags:Especially on one shoulder, may lead to muscular strain.
• Sudden injury or trauma:Falls or accidents can cause shoulder sprains or bruising.
• Age-related wear and tear:Natural degeneration over time can lead to pain or stiffness.
• Cold weather:May worsen joint stiffness and shoulder discomfort in some individuals.

Other possible causes of shoulder pain like:

• Inflammation, where your shoulder becomes warm, red, swollen, and painful, is a natural response to an infection or injury.
• Muscles and tendons in the shoulder are damaged.
• Muscle tension between the neck and shoulder often results from poor upper back or neck posture, commonly associated with prolonged computer use or workplace positioning.
• Inflammation of the bursa.
• Damage to bones and cartilage, which can be caused byarthritis.

Conditions That Cause Shoulder Pain

• Rotator Cuff Injury:Tears or inflammation in the tendons surrounding the shoulder can cause pain and limit movement.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis):Stiffness and pain develop gradually, often worsening over time and limiting mobility.
• Shoulder Bursitis:Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) leads to pain, especially with overhead motion.
• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome:Occurs when the shoulder tendons are compressed during movement, causing pain and irritation.
• Tendinitis:Inflammation of the shoulder tendons from overuse or strain causes aching and swelling.
• Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis):Degeneration or inflammation of the shoulder joint results in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
• Shoulder Dislocation:The upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, causing intense pain and instability.
• Labral Tear:Injury to the cartilage that lines the shoulder socket can lead to catching, locking, or pain during movement.
• Fractures (Clavicle or Humerus):Broken bones near the shoulder due to trauma can cause sharp pain and swelling.
• Cervical Radiculopathy:A pinched nerve in the neck can radiate pain into the shoulder.

Symptoms Associated with Shoulder Pain

• Stiffness:Difficulty moving the shoulder or lifting the arm.
• Swelling:Inflammation or puffiness around the joint.
• Limited range of motion:Trouble reaching or rotating the arm.
• Clicking or popping sound:Noise during shoulder movement.
• Weakness:Inability to lift or hold objects normally.
• Radiating pain:Pain that extends into the arm, neck, or upper back.
• Tenderness:Soreness when touching the shoulder.
• Numbness or tingling:Especially if nerves are involved.
• Pain at night:Discomfort while lying on or sleeping on the affected shoulder.
• Pain during specific movements:Such as reaching overhead or behind the back.

When to visit a Doctor?

Make an appointment with your doctor if your shoulder pain is accompanied by:

• If Unable to use the joint or keep the arm away from the body.
• If there is an intense pain.
• Sudden swelling
• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness and warmth around the joint
• Prevention

Diagnosis of Shoulder Pain

Your physician will want to find out the cause of your shoulder pain. They will ask you for your medical history and perform a physical exam.

• Physical Examination:A doctor checks for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion through various shoulder movements.
• Medical History:Includes details about recent injuries, activity levels, and duration of pain.
• X-rays:Used to identify fractures, arthritis, or bone abnormalities.
• MRI or CT Scan:Helps visualize soft tissue damage like rotator cuff tears, labral tears, or tendon injuries.
• Ultrasound:Evaluates tendon movement and detects inflammation or tears.
• Electromyography (EMG):Assesses nerve function to check for pinched nerves or neurological issues.
• Arthrogram:A special X-ray with contrast dye to view the shoulder joint in more detail.
• Blood Tests:May be done to rule out infection or autoimmune conditions if inflammation is suspected.

Treatment for Shoulder Pain

A doctor will examine you to determine what is causing your shoulder pain. They may send you tests (like an X-ray) to check the cause.

• Medications:Pain relievers like NSAIDs (ibuprofen or naproxen) reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Physical Therapy:Strengthening and flexibility exercises help restore movement and reduce stiffness.
• Corticosteroid Injections:Used to decrease severe inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Hot or Cold Therapy:Ice packs reduce swelling; heat therapy relaxes tight muscles.
• Rest and Activity Modification:Limiting movements that aggravate pain to allow healing.
• Shoulder Immobilization:Using a sling or brace to keep the shoulder in place during recovery.
• Ultrasound or Electrical Stimulation:Modalities used in physiotherapy to reduce pain and improve healing.
• Surgery:In severe cases like rotator cuff tears or dislocations, arthroscopy or open surgery may be needed.

Lifestyle Changes for Shoulder Pain

• Maintain good posture during daily activities and work.
• Incorporate shoulder-strengthening exercises into your fitness routine.
• Avoid repetitive overhead activities that strain the shoulder.
• Use ergonomic furniture and adjust workstations to reduce shoulder strain.
• Warm up and stretch before physical activity or sports.
• Gradually return to activity after a shoulder injury to prevent re-injury.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce overall joint stress.

Home Remedies for Shoulder Pain

• Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
• Use a warm compress to relax muscles and improve blood flow.
• Perform gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness.
• Massage the shoulder area to relieve muscle tension.
• Try over-the-counter pain relief creams for mild discomfort.
• Rest the shoulder and avoid lifting heavy objects.
• Elevate the shoulder slightly while resting to reduce inflammation.