What are the main causes of upper arm and shoulder pain. How can you differentiate between shoulder, neck, or injury-related pain. What are the most effective treatments for upper arm and shoulder discomfort.

Understanding the Anatomy of Upper Arm and Shoulder Pain

Upper arm and shoulder pain can be a complex issue, often leaving individuals wondering about its origin. Is it stemming from the shoulder joint, radiating from the neck, or simply the result of a minor injury? To truly comprehend the nature of this discomfort, it’s crucial to first understand the intricate anatomy of the shoulder region.

The shoulder is a highly mobile joint, consisting of the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). These bones are connected and supported by a network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, including the rotator cuff – a group of four muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint. This complex structure allows for a wide range of motion but also makes the area susceptible to various types of injuries and conditions.

The Interplay Between Shoulder and Neck

It’s important to note that shoulder pain can sometimes be linked to neck issues due to the intricate network of nerves that connect these areas. This phenomenon, known as referred pain, can make it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of discomfort. Understanding this connection is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Rotator Cuff Disorders: A Leading Cause of Shoulder Pain

Rotator cuff problems are among the most common causes of shoulder and upper arm pain. These issues can range from mild inflammation to complete tears of the tendons. But what exactly is the rotator cuff, and why is it so prone to injury?

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder and enable various arm movements. Due to their constant use and the shoulder’s wide range of motion, rotator cuff tissues are particularly vulnerable to wear and tear, overuse injuries, and acute trauma.

Types of Rotator Cuff Disorders

• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the rotator cuff
• Impingement: Compression of the rotator cuff tissues between the humerus and acromion
• Tears: Partial or complete ruptures of the rotator cuff tendons

What are the signs of a rotator cuff injury? Common symptoms include pain when lifting or lowering the arm, weakness in the shoulder, and difficulty performing overhead activities. In some cases, the pain may be more pronounced at night, especially when lying on the affected side.

Traumatic Injuries: When Sudden Force Causes Upper Arm Pain

Traumatic injuries to the shoulder and upper arm can result from various incidents, such as falls, sports-related accidents, or motor vehicle collisions. These injuries often cause sudden, severe pain and may require immediate medical attention. Let’s explore some of the most common traumatic injuries affecting this region:

Shoulder Dislocation

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the head of the humerus is forced out of the shoulder socket. This painful condition typically results from a sudden impact or extreme rotation of the arm. What are the immediate signs of a dislocated shoulder? Patients often experience severe pain, visible deformity of the shoulder, and an inability to move the arm.

Fractured Bones

Fractures in the shoulder region can affect the clavicle (collarbone), humerus (upper arm bone), or scapula (shoulder blade). These injuries are often the result of direct trauma or falls onto an outstretched arm. Symptoms may include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected arm.

Degenerative Conditions: When Age and Wear Take Their Toll

As we age, our joints naturally experience wear and tear, which can lead to various degenerative conditions affecting the shoulder and upper arm. These conditions often develop gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated.

Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder

Shoulder osteoarthritis is a common degenerative condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the shoulder joint. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. While less common than arthritis in weight-bearing joints like the knee or hip, shoulder osteoarthritis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

What are the early signs of shoulder osteoarthritis? Patients often report a dull ache in the shoulder, particularly after physical activity or at the end of the day. As the condition progresses, they may experience a grinding sensation when moving the shoulder and increased difficulty with everyday tasks.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops in three stages: freezing (painful stage), frozen (stiff stage), and thawing (recovery stage). The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but it’s believed that inflammation plays a significant role.

How long does a frozen shoulder typically last? While the condition often resolves on its own, the entire process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years. However, proper treatment and physical therapy can help speed up recovery and alleviate symptoms.

Nerve-Related Causes of Upper Arm and Shoulder Pain

Sometimes, the source of upper arm and shoulder pain lies not in the joint itself but in the nerves that supply the region. These nerve-related issues can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness that may extend from the neck down to the arm and hand.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck becomes compressed or irritated. This can happen due to various factors, including herniated discs, bone spurs, or degenerative changes in the cervical spine. The resulting symptoms often radiate down the arm, mimicking shoulder problems.

How can you distinguish cervical radiculopathy from a shoulder problem? Unlike most shoulder conditions, cervical radiculopathy often causes symptoms that extend beyond the shoulder, such as numbness or tingling in the arm and hand. Additionally, neck movements may exacerbate the symptoms.

Brachial Plexus Injuries

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to this nerve network can result from trauma, such as car accidents or falls, and can cause varying degrees of pain, weakness, and loss of function in the affected arm.

Inflammatory Conditions Affecting the Shoulder and Upper Arm

Inflammatory conditions can cause persistent pain and stiffness in the shoulder and upper arm. These conditions may be localized to the joint or part of a systemic autoimmune disorder.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, including the shoulder. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA often affects both shoulders symmetrically. The condition can lead to joint damage, pain, and reduced function if not properly managed.

What are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis in the shoulder? Early symptoms may include morning stiffness lasting more than an hour, symmetric pain in both shoulders, and warmth or swelling in the joint. RA can also cause systemic symptoms such as fatigue and low-grade fever.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, primarily in the shoulders and hips. It typically affects adults over 50 and can cause significant discomfort, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

Vascular Conditions: When Blood Flow Is Compromised

While less common, vascular issues can sometimes be the root cause of upper arm and shoulder pain. These conditions often involve compromised blood flow to the affected area, leading to pain, numbness, and other symptoms.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)

Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when the blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and first rib (thoracic outlet) become compressed. This can lead to pain in the shoulder and arm, as well as numbness and tingling in the fingers.

What factors can contribute to the development of thoracic outlet syndrome? TOS can be caused by anatomical abnormalities, such as an extra rib, or by repetitive activities that involve extending the arms above the head. Poor posture and obesity can also increase the risk of developing this condition.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Navigating the Path to Relief

Given the multitude of potential causes for upper arm and shoulder pain, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers typically use a combination of physical examination, patient history, and imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of the pain.

Diagnostic Approaches

1. Physical examination: Assessing range of motion, strength, and areas of tenderness
2. Imaging studies: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize bones, soft tissues, and potential abnormalities
3. Electromyography (EMG): To evaluate nerve function in cases of suspected nerve-related issues
4. Blood tests: To check for markers of inflammation or autoimmune conditions

Treatment Options

Treatment for upper arm and shoulder pain varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Common approaches include:

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy and targeted exercises
• Medications (NSAIDs, corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs for RA)
• Hot and cold therapy
• Surgical interventions for severe cases or when conservative treatments fail

How long does it typically take to recover from shoulder pain? Recovery time can vary greatly depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Minor injuries may resolve within a few weeks with proper care, while more serious conditions or those requiring surgery may take several months to heal completely.

Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Shoulder Health

While not all causes of upper arm and shoulder pain are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of injury and maintain optimal shoulder health:

• Practice good posture to reduce strain on the shoulder and neck
• Incorporate shoulder-strengthening exercises into your fitness routine
• Use proper technique when lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive tasks
• Take regular breaks and stretch during activities that involve prolonged arm use
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints

What are some effective shoulder-strengthening exercises? Exercises such as shoulder rotations, wall push-ups, and resistance band exercises can help improve shoulder strength and stability. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you’re currently experiencing shoulder pain.

In conclusion, upper arm and shoulder pain can stem from a variety of sources, ranging from simple overuse injuries to more complex systemic conditions. By understanding the potential causes and seeking prompt medical attention when needed, individuals can take proactive steps towards managing their pain and maintaining optimal shoulder function. Remember, early intervention and proper care are key to preventing long-term complications and ensuring a swift return to pain-free movement.

Right Shoulder and Arm Pain: 15 Causes and Treatments

Pain in the right shoulder and arm can occur due to injury, wear and tear, and other health conditions. You may experience other symptoms with certain causes.

Shoulder pain is very common. Because they’re the most mobile joints in your body, your shoulders are very prone to the effects of injuries and degenerative conditions.

It’s possible that shoulder pain can radiate down into your arm. Conversely, a condition affecting your upper arm may be felt around your shoulder.

You may be wondering what are the most common causes of right shoulder and arm pain.

Generally speaking, problems with the rotator cuff are the most common cause of this type of pain. Many of these issues are also the cause of left shoulder pain. However, some causes of left shoulder pain may be related to organs that cause referred radiating pain.

Keep reading to learn more about rotator cuff conditions as well as other potential causes of right shoulder and arm pain.

These are 15 possible causes of pain that occurs in your right shoulder and arm:

1. Rotator cuff disease

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep your upper arm bone (humerus) in the shoulder socket. Tissues of the rotator cuff can become diseased due to overuse or injury, for example, and can lead to:

• Tendinitis, where the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated and inflamed.
• Bursitis, in which the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that helps your rotator cuff to move freely, becomes inflamed.
• Impingement, where a part of your shoulder blade called the acromion rubs against the tissues of the rotator cuff, leading to swelling and pain.

2. Torn rotator cuff

This happens when one or more of the tendons in your rotator cuff tear. Tears can be partial or complete. They may happen due to an injury, but are often due to wear and tear that happens over time.

3. Shoulder dislocation

A shoulder dislocation happens when the top of your humerus pops out of its socket in your shoulder. This occurs often due to sports injuries, car accidents, and falls.

4. Broken collarbone

A broken collarbone happens when there’s a break in your collarbone (clavicle). Your collarbone serves as a connection between your shoulder and breastbone (sternum). Many breaks happen due to falls or car accidents.

5. Upper arm fracture

This occurs when there’s a break in your humerus. Breaks typically happen close to the shoulder or along the shaft (middle) of the bone. Like broken collarbones, they often happen due to falls or car accidents.

6. Frozen shoulder

A frozen shoulder is when your shoulder stiffens and becomes painful without a known cause, although inflammation is believed to play a role. The condition often eases gradually on its own.

7. Calcific tendinitis

Calcific tendinitis is a condition where calcium deposits build up in or around your rotator cuff, causing symptoms similar to those of frozen shoulder. The exact cause is unknown.

8. Shoulder sprain

A shoulder sprain happens when ligaments in your shoulder are stretched or torn. This can happen to any of the ligaments of your shoulder. Sprains often occur due to sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

9. Separated shoulder

A separated shoulder happens when there’s an injury to the ligaments that hold your shoulder to the collarbone. This can cause the ligaments to stretch or to completely tear.

10. Shoulder osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is when the tissues of your joints become worn down, often due to normal wear and tear. While less common than knee or hip arthritis, shoulder arthritis can have a significant impact on those that have it.

11. Shoulder rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

RA is a condition in which your immune system attacks your joints. People with RA can experience significantly impaired shoulder function about 1.5 years after the condition’s onset.

12. Cervical radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy happens when a nerve in your neck becomes compressed as it moves away from your spinal cord. It can happen due to wear and tear, herniated discs, or bone spurs.

13. Brachial neuritis

Brachial neuritis is when the brachial nerve, which supplies your shoulder and arm, becomes inflamed. Its cause is unknown. About 60 percent of the time brachial neuritis affects your dominant side.

14. Brachial plexus injury

Your brachial plexus is a group of nerves that control movements in your arm and hand. This function can be affected when these nerves are damaged. Common causes are falls and accidents.

15. Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)

TOS is actually a group of conditions that happen when the nerves or blood vessels around your collarbone and first rib become compressed. It can be caused by injury and repetitive motions.

Now that we’ve discussed some of the causes of right shoulder and arm pain, let’s take a closer look at what that pain can feel like.

Pain around the upper arm and shoulder

This happens when the pain is localized predominantly in the area of your shoulder and upper part of your humerus. The conditions that cause this can include:

• Rotator cuff disease: Initially, pain is often felt at the front of the shoulder.
• Torn rotator cuff: Tears in the rotator cuff can include pain that begins near the shoulder.
• Dislocated shoulder: Pain from a shoulder dislocation is most acutely felt near the shoulder.
• Broken collarbone: The pain from a broken collarbone can be felt close to the shoulder, particularly when you try to move your arm.
• Frozen shoulder: This type of pain typically comes on gradually and feels dull and deep.
• Calcific tendinitis: Pain due to calcific tendinitis can be severe and can come on suddenly, often in the morning.
• Shoulder sprain: You can feel pain from a shoulder sprain not only in your shoulder, but also in the area of your upper arm and collarbone.
• Separated shoulder: The pain due to a separated shoulder is felt around the shoulder and upper arm.
• Shoulder osteoarthritis and RA: People with arthritis in their shoulder often feel a deep ache in their shoulder and upper arm.
• Brachial neuritis: Pain from brachial neuritis is typically severe and most often happens in the area of the shoulder and upper arm.
• Brachial plexus injury: Pain from a brachial plexus injury can happen around the shoulder and upper arm. It may be long lasting.

Pain between the shoulder and elbow

In some cases, pain can be felt in both the area of the right shoulder and further down towards your right elbow. Some causes are:

• Rotator cuff disease: Pain can begin to radiate from your shoulder into the side of your upper arm.
• Torn rotator cuff: Shoulder pain may radiate down your arm to the area of the elbow.
• Dislocated shoulder: The pain from a dislocated shoulder can radiate down the upper arm.
• Upper arm fracture: A break in your upper arm can cause pain that’s localized around the area of your shoulder and throughout your upper arm.
• Frozen shoulder: Pain from a frozen shoulder may also spread into your right bicep.
• Calcific tendinitis: Similarly to frozen shoulder, pain from calcific tendinitis can spread down into your bicep area.

Pain from the shoulder to the hand

Many causes of right shoulder and arm pain are localized in the area of the shoulder and upper arm. But some can cause pain that can be felt all the way down to your hand. These include:

• Cervical radiculopathy: This condition can cause sharp pain that can move from the area of your neck and shoulder all the way down your arm.
• Thoracic outlet syndrome: Pain from TOS can be present from your shoulder down to your hand and fingers.
• Brachial plexus injuries: As discussed earlier, this type of injury could affect your arm and hand.

Pain with numbness

Pain that occurs with numbness is often associated with conditions affecting the nerves in your shoulder and arm. The conditions that may cause this type of pain are:

• Shoulder dislocation: The injury that dislocates your shoulder may cause some nerves to stretch, leading to feelings of numbness.
• Upper arm fracture: An upper arm fracture can potentially lead to nerve damage, causing numbness.
• Cervical radiculopathy: This sensation is often described as “pins and needles,” and it’s typically felt in your hand and fingers.
• Brachial neuritis: Nerve inflammation due to brachial neuritis is often associated with numbness in the shoulder and arm.
• Brachial plexus injury: These injuries can lead to numbness and potentially paralysis in the shoulder and arm.
• Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS): TOS can cause numbness and tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers.

Burning pain

There are several conditions in which pain may have a burning sensation to it. As with feelings of numbness, burning pain is often felt when nerves are involved. The conditions that can cause this type of pain are:

• cervical radiculopathy
• brachial neuritis
• brachial plexus injuries
• thoracic outlet syndrome

In addition to pain, you may also experience some of the following symptoms in or around your right shoulder and arm:

• pain that happens when:
  • moving your right shoulder or arm, such as when raising, dropping, or rotating your right arm
  • lying down on your right side
  • reaching for or lifting objects with your right arm
• swelling
• stiffness
• bruising
• tenderness
• loss of range of motion
• difficulty carrying out your daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and cooking
• a feeling of weakness in the right shoulder, arm, or both
• a tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in your right hand or fingers
• a crackling or grinding sensation in your right shoulder when you move your right arm
• a visible deformity

Right shoulder and arm pain, and heart attack

You may think that heart attack pain may only radiate to your left shoulder and arm. However, according to the American Heart Association, heart attack pain can be felt in the shoulders and one or both arms.

If you or someone else is experiencing right shoulder and arm pain that occurs with any of the symptoms below, call 911.

• chest pain or pressure that goes on for more than a few minutes
• pain in the jaw, neck, or back
• shortness of breath
• feeling lightheaded
• breaking out in a cold sweat
• nausea or vomiting

Let’s look at how right shoulder and arm pain is treated.

Home remedies

If your right shoulder and arm pain is mild to moderate, you can try the following things at home before making an appointment with your doctor.

• Use the R.I.C.E. method: R.I.C.E. can be used shortly after an injury to ease symptoms and promote recovery. It includes:
  • Rest: Stop doing any activities that cause further pain or irritation.
  • Ice: Apply an icepack or cool compress to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day.
  • Compression: Wrap or bandage the affected area to help alleviate swelling.
  • Elevation: Try to elevate your right shoulder and arm about the level of your heart.
• Take over-the-counter (OTC) medications: There are several types of OTC medications that can help ease symptoms like pain and swelling. Some examples include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil).
• Try some gentle stretches: Regular, gentle stretching can help improve flexibility and range of motion. We’ll talk about some basic exercises that you can try out in the next section.
• Maintain good posture: Poor posture can place further stress on the tissues of your shoulder and arm.

If you have to go to the doctor

If you talk with your doctor about right shoulder and arm pain, they may recommend the following, depending on the severity of your condition.

• Immobilization: In some cases, limiting the movement of your shoulder or arm may help it heal. This is often achieved using a sling, brace, or cast. Your doctor will let you know when it can be removed.
• Corticosteroid injections: This is a type of medication that your doctor can inject into the affected area to help reduce inflammation.
• Prescription medications: Prescription pain medications may be given for severe pain. Oral corticosteroids can help ease inflammation. If you have RA, your doctor will likely prescribe a disease-modifying drug.
• Physical therapy: Your doctor may give you a list of exercises to do that can help you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion. In some cases, they may recommend that you work with a physical therapist.
• Surgery: Surgery may be recommended when other treatments haven’t been effective or when damage is severe. The specific procedure that’s used can depend on what’s causing your condition.

Exercise can help reduce pain and improve your flexibility. In fact, a 2020 review of 16 studies found that exercise therapy can be just as effective at easing persistent shoulder pain as corticosteroid injections or decompression surgery.

Below are three exercises that you can try out to help ease or prevent pain in your right shoulder or arm. You can do these stretches either standing up or sitting down.

When doing any exercise or stretch, remember to always use good posture and never push yourself further than you can go. If you have any questions or concerns about an exercise, don’t hesitate to talk with your doctor first.

Crossover arm stretch

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You should feel this stretch in the back of your right shoulder. To do it:

1. Gently pull your right arm across your chest as far as you can.
2. Use your left hand to hold the upper part of your right arm.
3. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds.
4. Allow your right shoulder to relax for 30 seconds.
5. Repeat another three times.

Triceps stretch

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This stretch is felt in your upper arm (triceps) and shoulder. Follow the steps below:

1. Place your right hand onto your right shoulder.
2. Grip your right elbow with your left hand.
3. Gently lift your right elbow towards the ceiling until you feel the stretch.
4. Hold the stretch for 10 to 30 seconds.
5. Release the stretch, resting for up to 30 seconds.
6. Repeat another one to three times.

Chest stretch

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When you do this exercise, you can feel the stretch in your chest, shoulders, and upper arm (biceps). Here’s how to do it:

1. Gently clasp your hands behind your back, making sure that your palms face toward you.
2. Carefully begin to lift your clasped hands toward the ceiling until you begin to feel the stretch.
3. Hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds.
4. Release the stretch, slowly lowering your hands.
5. Rest for up to 30 seconds.
6. Repeat another one to three times.

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have right shoulder and arm pain that:

• doesn’t get better or gets worse with at-home care
• reduces your range of motion
• is associated with symptoms like increasing redness or swelling
• occurs with numbness, weakness, or a “pins and needles” sensation

Seek emergency care if you have an injury to your right shoulder or arm that:

• is associated with any type of irregularity, including those felt under the skin or bones protruding from the skin
• causes severe pain, swelling, or bleeding
• happens with an audible snapping or popping sound

Many conditions can lead to pain in your right shoulder and arm. This pain can affect different locations and may sometimes happen with numbness.

The most common cause of right shoulder and arm pain is an issue with your rotator cuff, such as tendinitis or bursitis. Other potential causes include fractures, arthritis, and cervical radiculopathy.

If you have mild to moderate pain, you can try using home remedies such as R.I.C.E., stretches, and OTC medications to ease your symptoms. Talk with your doctor if home care isn’t effective or pain happens with numbness or increasing swelling.

Shoulder Pain: Causes, Treatments & Diagnosis

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Your shoulder is a ball and socket joint and very mobile. It may hurt for many reasons, from injury and overuse to chronic conditions or diseases. You need to know the cause to get effective treatment.

The shoulder has a wide and versatile range of motion. When something goes wrong with your shoulder, it hampers your ability to move freely and can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort.

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint that has three main bones: the humerus (long arm bone), the clavicle (collarbone), and the scapula (also known as the shoulder blade).

These bones are cushioned by a layer of cartilage. There are two main joints. The acromioclavicular joint is between the highest part of the scapula and the clavicle.

The glenohumeral joint is made up of the top, ball-shaped part of the humerus bone and the outer edge of the scapula. This joint is also known as the shoulder joint.

The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the body. It moves the shoulder forward and backward. It also allows the arm to move in a circular motion and to move up and away from the body.

Shoulders get their range of motion from the rotator cuff.

The rotator cuff is made up of four tendons. Tendons are the tissues that connect muscles to bone. It may be painful or difficult to lift your arm over your head if the tendons or bones around the rotator cuff are damaged or swollen.

You can injure your shoulder by performing manual labor, playing sports, or even by repetitive movement. Certain diseases can bring about pain that travels to the shoulder. These include diseases of the cervical spine (neck), as well as liver, heart, or gallbladder disease.

You’re more likely to have problems with your shoulder as you grow older, especially after age 60. This is because the soft tissues surrounding the shoulder tend to degenerate with age.

In many cases, you can treat shoulder pain at home. However, physical therapy, medications, or surgery may also be necessary.

Here’s what you need know about shoulder pain, including causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Several factors and conditions can contribute to shoulder pain. The most prevalent cause is rotator cuff tendinitis.

This is a condition characterized by swollen tendons. Another common cause of shoulder pain is impingement syndrome where the rotator cuff gets caught between the acromium (part of the scapula that covers the ball) and humeral head (the ball portion of the humerus).

Sometimes shoulder pain is the result of injury to another location in your body, usually the neck or biceps. This is known as referred pain. Referred pain generally doesn’t get worse when you move your shoulder.

Other causes of shoulder pain include:

• arthritis
• torn cartilage
• torn rotator cuff
• swollen bursa sacs or tendons
• bone spurs (bony projections that develop along the edges of bones)
• pinched nerve in the neck or shoulder
• broken shoulder or arm bone
• frozen shoulder
• dislocated shoulder
• injury due to overuse or repetitive use
• spinal cord injury
• heart attack

Your doctor will want to find out the cause of your shoulder pain. They’ll request your medical history and do a physical examination.

They’ll feel for tenderness and swelling and will also assess your range of motion and joint stability. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, can produce detailed pictures of your shoulder to help with the diagnosis.

Your doctor may also ask questions to determine the cause. Questions may include:

• Is the pain in one shoulder or both?
• Did this pain begin suddenly? If so, what were you doing?
• Does the pain move to other areas of your body?
• Can you pinpoint the area of pain?
• Does it hurt when you’re not moving?
• Does it hurt more when you move in certain ways?
• Is it a sharp pain or a dull ache?
• Has the area of pain been red, hot, or swollen?
• Does the pain keep you awake at night?
• What makes it worse and what makes it better?
• Have you had to limit your activities because of your shoulder pain?

You can book an appointment with a primary care doctor in your area using our Healthline FindCare tool.

You should contact your doctor if you experience fever, inability to move your shoulder, lasting bruising, heat and tenderness around the joint, or pain that persists beyond a few weeks of home treatment.

If your shoulder pain is sudden and not related to an injury, call 911 immediately. It may be a sign of a heart attack. Other signs of a heart attack include:

• trouble breathing
• chest tightness
• dizziness
• excessive sweating
• pain in the neck or jaw

Also, call 911 or go to an emergency room immediately if you injured your shoulder and are bleeding, swollen, or you can see exposed tissue.

Treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the shoulder pain. Some treatment options include physical or occupational therapy, a sling or shoulder immobilizer, or surgery.

Your doctor may also prescribe medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can be taken by mouth or your doctor can inject into your shoulder.

If you’ve had shoulder surgery, follow after-care instructions carefully.

Some minor shoulder pain can be treated at home. Icing the shoulder for 15 to 20 minutes three or four times a day for several days can help reduce pain. Use an ice bag or wrap ice in a towel because putting ice directly on your skin can cause frostbite and burn the skin.

Resting the shoulder for several days before returning to normal activity and avoiding any movements that might cause pain can be helpful. Limit overhead work or activities.

Other home treatments include using over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce pain and inflammation and compressing the area with an elastic bandage to reduce swelling.

Simple shoulder exercises can help stretch and strengthen muscles and rotator cuff tendons. A physical therapist or occupational therapist can show you how to do them properly.

If you’ve had previous shoulder issues, use ice for 15 minutes after exercising to prevent future injuries.

After having bursitis or tendinitis, performing simple range-of-motion exercises every day can keep you from getting frozen shoulder.

Shoulder pain | Rhinos Clinic

The shoulder joint is one of the most unique joints in the human body in terms of structure and function. Uncharacteristic or excessive physical loads exerted on the shoulder joint can lead to local inflammatory processes. The consequence of the inflammatory process, in turn, may be local edema, joint effusion, and even partial ruptures of the tendons that surround the shoulder joint.

In addition, the shoulder joint has one feature in common with conventional mechanisms – it can withstand mishandling only up to a certain point, it has its own strength limit, then its functions can be disturbed, which turn into pain.

According to the mechanism of occurrence, pain in the shoulder can be divided as follows.

Pain localized in the upper part of the shoulder, may come from the neck. At the same time, it spreads throughout the arm, aggravated by movement of the neck, sometimes accompanied by numbness or paresthesia. Studies of the spine (cervical or thoracic) most often show the presence of an intervertebral hernia. Damage to the intervertebral discs leads to the loss of their elasticity, they flatten, and the distance between the vertebrae decreases. As a result, the nerve roots extending from the spinal cord are clamped, causing pain. In this case, swelling appears in the clamp area, leading to even greater infringement and increased pain.

Capsulitis is a condition of painful stiffness of the muscles located in the shoulder girdle. It is rare, develops gradually, sometimes imperceptibly for the patient. There is a limitation in the ability to move the hand to the side when lifting it up, as well as the inability to put the sore hand behind the back. In severe cases, the ability of the affected hand to bring the spoon to the mouth is lost.

Rotator cuff injury can occur when making unusual movements in the arm (for example, when painting the ceiling). On the day when the work was carried out, there are usually no complaints. But the very next day there is a sharp pain if you try to remove something from the top shelf. During the examination, it is necessary to determine the degree of tension of the muscles of the shoulder girdle and the ability to perform movements in the shoulder joint. Joint radiographs usually do not show any changes.

Tendobursitis is a reactive inflammation of the bursa of the shoulder joint, which is caused by calcifications of the tendons of the muscles. It is characterized by pain that occurs acutely in the shoulder and a significant limitation of active and passive movements in it. It is also usually accompanied by severe pain in the shoulder girdle, arm, neck.

Causes of shoulder pain

The most common causes of shoulder pain can be:

1. Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendons that surround the shoulder joint. They are the result of excessive stress, in which friction of the tendons against the bone occurs, causing irritation and pain.
2. Tendonitis of the biceps (muscles on the inside of the shoulder, running from the shoulder to the elbow area) – is characterized by chronic pain that increases with movement and palpation. If a complete rupture of the biceps tendon has occurred, a swelling in the form of a ball appears in the affected area.
3. Bursitis is a disorder usually associated with tendonitis. Pain in the shoulder , as with tendonitis, associated with overload, but they are joined by swelling in the area of ​​the articular bag (soft sac surrounding the joint).
4. Collision syndrome – deposition of calcium salts, causing calcification of the ligaments of the joint. Typically, such salt deposits can occur in the tendon passing under the scapula and collarbone. Most often found between the ages of 30-50 years. Characterized by the sudden onset of intense and constant pain when the shoulder is abducted from the body by 30-90 degrees. Can be detected on x-ray before pain occurs.
5. Traumatic injuries – when falling, the humerus is displaced in such a way that the upper part of the arm “flies” out of the socket of the joint. Sometimes the injury also ruptures the tendons of the muscles that provide rotation of the arm. Injuries of this kind, left untreated, lead to persistent dysfunction of the shoulder.
6. Recurrent dislocation of the shoulder – in addition to accidents, occurs in athletes or young people. It leads to periodic “falling out” of the shoulder from the joint without even a traumatic effect, with minor loads. In adults, injuries to the structures of the shoulder joint occur due to aging, tissue wear or developed osteoporosis (disorders of calcium metabolism in the bones).
7. Tumors and hereditary anatomical abnormalities – not very common, but can also cause pain in the shoulder joint.
8. Bodybuilding shoulder injury is a common problem in bodybuilding, along with pain in the elbows, knees, and lower back. It leads to the impossibility of performing a number of exercises of the training program. The main cause of such an injury is instability of the shoulder joint, which occurs when the ligaments of the shoulder joint are overstretched, stress in the articular bag of the shoulder joint and excessive work of its muscles, tear of the cartilage ring.
9. Diseases of the internal organs – pain can spread to the shoulder with liver pathology, pneumonia, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, tumors of the chest organs, cervical sciatica.

Shoulder-shoulder periarthrosis – often the pain begins gradually, without an obvious provoking factor. But, having a progressive character, it does not allow you to perform everyday activities, it disturbs the patient at night. Movement in the shoulder joint is painful in various directions. Pain in the forearm and hand is added to the pain in the shoulder, which can be of a different nature: aching, shooting, burning, etc. The disease can end in a few weeks with a complete recovery, or it can last for months and lead to the development of a picture of a blocked shoulder.

Knowing which movements cause pain in the shoulder, it is possible to determine which tendons have been affected by the disease:

• pain when moving the arm to the side and when moving it forward – changes in the supraspinal tendon,
• pain on outward rotation of upper arm, elbow pressed against body – changes in infraspinal tendon,
• pain on inward rotation of the upper arm, elbow pressed against the body – changes in the subscapularis tendon,
• pain in the anterior part of the shoulder during the rotation of the forearm inward with resistance – most often an indicator of the disease of this biceps.

Considering that there are many causes for shoulder pain, and self-treatment or lack of treatment can lead to an exacerbation of the disease or its transition to a chronic stage, it is imperative to consult a doctor. It can be a traumatologist, orthopedist or neurologist.

Why does the arm hurt and does not rise up?

Causes of pain in the shoulder joint

When determining the reasons why the arm does not rise up, it is important to differentiate diseases of the internal organs. The most dangerous of them is myocardial infarction. Pain when raising the arm up in this condition is accompanied by other symptoms: weakness, arrhythmia, nausea, shortness of breath, fear. The patient requires immediate hospitalization.

It can also be difficult to raise a hand in other therapeutic diseases – cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, pleurisy, etc. They are also characterized by other symptoms not related to the musculoskeletal system – nausea, vomiting, cough.
Among the causes of pain in the muscles when raising the arm, directly related to the shoulder joint, diseases and injuries can be distinguished. Injuries include fractures, bruises, dislocations, damage to ligaments and joints. They usually do not cause difficulties in diagnosis.

The most common reason that the arm does not rise is diseases of the articular tissues:

1. Arthritis is an inflammatory process that occurs for various reasons. The main ones are infections (viral, gonorrheal, borrelios arthritis) and autoimmune reactions (rheumatoid arthritis). Arthritis is characterized by night pain, redness, swelling, and fever in the joint area.
2. Osteoarthritis – gradual destruction of the cartilage of the joint due to injury or age-related changes. Osteoarthritis pain worsens with exercise and lessens with rest.
3. Bursitis, in which, due to inflammation, an excess of synovial fluid accumulates in the joint capsule. In addition to acute pain with bursitis, there is severe swelling, an increase in the temperature of the shoulder or the whole body.
4. Capsulitis (“frozen shoulder”), in which, as a result of chronic inflammation, the joint capsule loses elasticity and restricts movement. It is characterized by an undulating course with nocturnal pain and progressive limitation of the mobility of the shoulder joint.
5. Shoulder-shoulder periatritis, which has a degenerative-inflammatory nature. Ligaments, muscles, tendons of the shoulder joint are involved in the inflammatory process. Patients experience severe pain, the arm does not rise well, it cannot be moved behind the back.
6. Tendonitis characterized by inflammation of the tendons. Pain can occur both during movement and at rest. It is difficult for the patient to raise his arms forward, to the side or back, depending on the location of the pathological process.
7. Osteochondrosis. When the cervical spine is affected, the nerve endings are pinched, this process can spread to the upper limbs. In addition to the fact that the arm hurts and does not rise up, numbness, “lumbago” can be observed.
8. Calcification or calcification of ligaments in which calcium salts accumulate in the tendons. The disease develops gradually with increasing pain and stiffness. In the initial stages, mild pain may be felt, it is difficult for the patient to raise his hands, with the development of the process, sharp pains and stiffness appear, which can even cause sleep disturbances.
9. Damage to the brachial nerve (neuritis) and nerve plexus (brachial plexitis). These neurological diseases are caused by metabolic disorders and inflammatory processes in the nerve fibers. In addition to pain when raising the arm up in the forearm, patients feel weakness in the muscles, numbness of the arm, and decreased skin sensitivity.
10. Shoulder joint tumors are a rare pathology that leads to tissue compression, discomfort and pain due to pressure on nerve fibers.

As you can see, there are a lot of reasons why hands hurt when lifting up. It is possible to prescribe an effective treatment and eliminate the pathology only after an accurate diagnosis has been made. Some conditions that cause pain when raising the arm up in the shoulder and forearm are deadly, so this symptom should not be ignored or self-medicated.

Diagnostics

Various diagnostic methods are used to determine the reasons why the arm does not rise. Diagnosis begins with an examination of the patient, palpation of the painful area and anamnesis. Based on the data obtained about the nature of pain, clinical picture, lifestyle and concomitant diseases of the patient, the doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis. In the course of further examinations, this diagnosis is specified or refuted. The full range of diagnostic measures includes:

1. Laboratory diagnostics – blood tests (biochemical, total, C-reactive protein). With their help, it is possible to detect the presence of inflammation, autoimmune reactions, metabolic disorders.
2. An x-ray showing the condition of bones and cartilage. The degree of cartilage wear is estimated by the size of the gaps between the heads of the mating bones.
3. Ultrasound is an ultrasound examination that allows to detect excess synovial fluid in the joint cavity, foci of inflammatory processes, neoplasms and abscesses.
4. Computed tomography (CT), which allows you to assess the condition of cartilage and bone tissue in osteoarthritis, osteochondrosis, bone and joint injuries.
5. MRI – magnetic resonance imaging, which makes it possible to visualize the state of inert, cartilage and soft tissues by layer-by-layer scanning.
6. Puncture of the shoulder joint to collect synovial fluid for analysis.
7. Arthroscopy, which consists in introducing into the joint cavity through the smallest incision of a miniature video camera.

The use of these methods gives comprehensive information about the reasons why the shoulder hurts when raising the arm. Depending on the identified diseases, the patient is treated by specialized specialists: traumatologists, orthopedists, rheumatologists, neurologists.

Treatment

In a condition where the arm hurts when raising the arm, the treatment is prescribed in accordance with the diagnosis. If it is found that this symptom indicates diseases of the internal organs, then the underlying disease is treated. Rheumatoid arthritis is treated by a rheumatologist. In case of injuries, the joint is immobilized using special devices to ensure tissue regeneration, or a surgical operation is performed.
In the acute phase of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, drug therapy is carried out:

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used to relieve inflammation and pain in various forms: injection solutions, capsules, tablets, ointments.
2. Glucocorticosteroids are used to relieve autoimmune inflammation and prevent joint destruction. They can be injected directly into the joint cavity.
3. To eliminate muscle spasms, muscle relaxants are prescribed.
4. To activate blood circulation in the affected shoulder joint, warming ointments are used.

If the inflammatory disease is caused by an infection, the patient is given antibiotics. In case of osteoarthritis, the doctor prescribes chondroprotectors, in case of neurological diseases, vitamins of group B are used.