Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life. From overuse injuries to arthritis, many conditions can cause shoulder pain. Here is an in-depth look at shoulder pain, including causes, diagnosis, treatment options and home remedies.
What causes shoulder pain?
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons that connect muscles to the shoulder joint is a leading cause of shoulder pain.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae sacs around the shoulder joint leads to pain, stiffness and reduced motion.
• Rotator cuff tear: A common shoulder injury involving damage to one of the tendons that stabilize the joint.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause cartilage breakdown and joint inflammation leading to shoulder pain.
• Bone fractures: Broken bones in the shoulder region due to an injury or fall cause acute and chronic shoulder pain.
• Referred pain: Pain originating in surrounding structures like neck and upper back that radiates to the shoulder region.
• Dislocation: Trauma that displaces the ball of the upper arm bone from the shoulder socket joint causes severe shoulder pain.
Symptoms of shoulder pain
• Dull, sharp or aching pain in the shoulder or upper arm
• Stiffness, tenderness or reduced range of motion
• Pain that worsens with overhead activity or lifting objects
• Popping, clicking or grating sensation in the shoulder
• Weakness or numbness in the shoulder, arm or hand
• Swelling or knots in the shoulder muscles
Diagnosis of shoulder pain
• Detailed medical history and physical exam
• Imaging tests like x-rays, MRI or ultrasound to check for injuries, arthritis and other causes
• Blood tests to rule out infections, inflammatory conditions or other systemic diseases
• Electromyography (EMG) nerve test to detect nerve damage
Treatment and home remedies for shoulder pain
• Rest and avoidance of exacerbating activities initially
• Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers
• Physical therapy exercises to improve mobility and strength
• Corticosteroid injections for short-term inflammation relief
• Orthopedic devices like slings or braces
• Lifestyle modifications like weight loss and stress management
• Surgery to repair torn tissues or replace joints (as a last resort)
Home remedies for shoulder pain:
• Ice or heat packs, massage, stretching
• Alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen
• Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation
• Avoiding repetitive overhead activities
Complications of untreated shoulder pain include muscle atrophy, adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder, and susceptibility to reinjury.
Surgery may be required in cases of rotator cuff tears, severe arthritis, failed conservative treatments, and shoulder instability.
Common FAQs about Shoulder Pain
• How long does tendonitis last?
Tendinitis symptoms typically improve within months with proper treatment but can become chronic.
• What exercises help shoulder pain?
Range of motion exercises, gentle strengthening and posture correction can help shoulder pain.
• Can neck pain cause shoulder pain?
Yes, issues like herniated discs and arthritis in the cervical spine can referred pain that feels like it’s in the shoulder.
Key terms: shoulder pain, tendonitis, bursitis, rotator cuff tear, osteoarthritis, dislocation, physical therapy, corticosteroid injection, home remedies, surgery