What are common causes of shoulder pain. How can you effectively treat shoulder discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for shoulder issues. What preventive measures can help maintain shoulder health.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries and Their Impact

The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint, plays a crucial role in shoulder mobility. Rotator cuff issues are among the most prevalent causes of shoulder discomfort, affecting millions of people annually. These problems typically fall into two main categories: tears and inflammation.

Rotator Cuff Impingement: Causes and Symptoms

Rotator cuff impingement occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become irritated, inflamed, or compressed. This condition can result from both acute injuries and gradual wear and tear over time. Individuals experiencing impingement often report pain or stiffness when lifting their arm overhead or reaching behind their back.

Differentiating Between Rotator Cuff Tears and Impingements

While both rotator cuff tears and impingements can cause similar pain patterns, there is a key distinguishing factor. Tears are often accompanied by weakness in addition to pain, whereas impingements typically only present with pain. Rotator cuff tears can be partial or complete, with the latter involving a complete separation of the tendon from the bone.

• Partial tear: Only a portion of the tendon is detached from the bone
• Full tear: The tendon is completely separated from the bone

Age is a significant risk factor for rotator cuff tears, with prevalence increasing in each subsequent decade of life. This is likely due to the weakening of the tendon-bone interface over time, making it more susceptible to injury.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can arise from various sources, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and early intervention.

Acute Injuries Leading to Shoulder Pain

Sudden shoulder pain often results from specific incidents or accidents. Common causes include:

• Falls, particularly on icy surfaces
• Being pulled unexpectedly by a dog on a leash
• Tripping and landing on the shoulder
• Sports-related injuries

Gradual Onset of Shoulder Discomfort

In many cases, shoulder pain develops gradually without a clear cause. This can be due to:

• Repetitive motions in daily activities or work
• Poor posture over time
• Age-related degeneration of shoulder structures
• Underlying medical conditions affecting joint health

Calcific Tendinitis: A Painful Shoulder Condition

Calcific tendinitis is a condition characterized by calcium deposits forming within the rotator cuff tendons. While the exact cause remains unclear, some experts believe it may result from an abnormal healing process in the ligament.

Symptoms and Risk Factors of Calcific Tendinitis

This condition typically causes severe pain, often most intense in the morning. It is more prevalent in:

• Middle-aged and older adults
• Individuals with diabetes

Treatment Options for Calcific Tendinitis

The primary goals of treatment are pain relief and preservation of shoulder range of motion. Common approaches include:

1. Anti-inflammatory medications
2. Corticosteroid injections
3. Physical therapy
4. In severe cases, surgical removal of calcium deposits

Frozen Shoulder: Understanding Adhesive Capsulitis

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a condition characterized by the thickening and stiffening of tissues surrounding the shoulder joint. This condition predominantly affects individuals between 40 and 60 years of age.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages:

1. Freezing stage: Gradual onset of pain and limitation in shoulder movement
2. Frozen stage: Pain may decrease, but stiffness increases
3. Thawing stage: Gradual improvement in range of motion

Risk Factors and Treatment Approaches

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder, including:

• Diabetes
• Thyroid disorders
• Prolonged immobilization of the shoulder

Treatment often involves a combination of pain management, physical therapy, and, in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention.

Effective Home Remedies for Mild Shoulder Pain

For mild shoulder discomfort, several home remedies can provide relief before seeking medical attention:

Activity Modification and Rest

Adjusting daily activities to avoid aggravating movements can help reduce strain on the shoulder. Adequate rest allows time for minor injuries to heal naturally.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Gentle Stretching Exercises

Performing mild stretches can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness. However, it’s crucial to avoid pushing through pain or forcing movements that cause discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Shoulder Pain

While many cases of shoulder pain can be managed at home, certain situations warrant prompt medical evaluation:

Indicators of Serious Shoulder Conditions

• Sudden, severe pain following an injury
• Inability to move the arm or shoulder
• Visible deformity or swelling
• Pain accompanied by fever or other systemic symptoms

Persistent or Worsening Symptoms

If shoulder pain doesn’t improve after a few weeks of home care or continues to worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnostic Approaches for Shoulder Pain

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of shoulder pain. Healthcare providers use various methods to identify the underlying cause:

Physical Examination

A thorough physical exam allows the doctor to assess range of motion, strength, and specific areas of pain or tenderness. They may perform specialized tests to evaluate rotator cuff function and stability.

Imaging Studies

Depending on the suspected condition, imaging studies may be recommended:

• X-rays: To visualize bone structure and detect arthritis or fractures
• MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including tendons and ligaments
• Ultrasound: Offers real-time imaging of shoulder structures during movement

Additional Diagnostic Tools

In some cases, further diagnostic procedures may be necessary:

• Electromyography (EMG): To assess nerve function
• Arthrography: Involves injecting contrast material to enhance imaging of joint structures
• Diagnostic arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure for direct visualization of joint structures

Comprehensive Treatment Strategies for Shoulder Pain

Treatment approaches for shoulder pain vary depending on the underlying cause, severity, and individual patient factors. A comprehensive plan often involves a combination of interventions:

Conservative Management

Initial treatment typically focuses on non-invasive approaches:

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Medications for pain relief and inflammation reduction
• Application of ice or heat
• Ultrasound therapy

Interventional Treatments

For more persistent or severe cases, additional interventions may be considered:

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Regenerative medicine approaches, such as stem cell therapy

Surgical Options

When conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief, surgical intervention may be necessary:

• Arthroscopic procedures for rotator cuff repairs or removal of bone spurs
• Open surgery for more complex cases or joint replacements
• Shoulder arthroplasty for severe arthritis

Preventing Shoulder Pain and Maintaining Joint Health

While not all shoulder problems can be prevented, certain strategies can help reduce the risk of injury and maintain overall shoulder health:

Regular Exercise and Strength Training

Engaging in exercises that target the shoulder muscles can improve stability and reduce the risk of injury. Focus on exercises that strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles:

• External and internal rotation exercises
• Shoulder blade squeezes
• Wall pushups
• Resistance band exercises

Proper Posture and Ergonomics

Maintaining good posture and ergonomic practices can significantly reduce strain on the shoulders:

• Adjust workstations to promote neutral shoulder positions
• Use ergonomic tools and equipment when possible
• Take regular breaks to stretch and change positions
• Be mindful of posture during daily activities, including smartphone use

Gradual Progression in Physical Activities

When starting new activities or exercises that involve the shoulders, it’s important to progress gradually:

• Begin with lighter weights or resistance and gradually increase
• Learn proper form and technique for exercises and sports activities
• Allow adequate rest and recovery between workouts
• Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain

Nutritional Support for Joint Health

A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can support overall joint health:

• Omega-3 fatty acids for their anti-inflammatory properties
• Vitamin D and calcium for bone health
• Antioxidants to combat oxidative stress
• Collagen and protein for tissue repair and maintenance

By incorporating these preventive measures into daily life, individuals can reduce their risk of shoulder pain and maintain optimal shoulder function throughout their lives. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers and addressing any concerns promptly can also contribute to long-term shoulder health.

Ouch! Shoulder pain and how to treat it

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You probably don’t think about your shoulders much, until you suddenly experience pain in one of them. Shoulder pain can make a simple act — brushing and drying your hair, reaching behind your back to fasten a bra, or grabbing something overhead — seem like a monumental task.

As you age, you’re more likely to experience shoulder pain from a variety of common conditions. The pain can come on gradually or abruptly, and it may range from mild to excruciating.

Below are some of the most common conditions you may encounter, and some tips for how to address them.

Rotator cuff injuries and irritations

Your rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help tether your shoulder into the socket and allow you to move it in a circular motion. Some two million people visit a doctor each year for rotator cuff–related issues, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery (AAOS). Most problems with the rotator cuff fall into two categories: tears or inflammation. Suspect a rotator cuff problem if you have pain or stiffness in your shoulder when you lift your arm above your head to brush your hair or when you reach behind your back. You won’t be able to do a lot of things you want to do, such as put dishes in an upper cabinet, play tennis, or do garden pruning.

Rotator cuff impingement. A rotator cuff impingement happens when there is irritation, inflammation, or compression of the tendons or bursa (the fluid-filled sac that sits between bones) in the shoulder. An impingement can be caused by an injury, but it can also just result from general wear and tear from daily life.

Rotator cuff tears. A tear in the rotator cuff will produce pain that is similar to an impingement but has one additional differentiating feature. If the pain is associated with weakness, it is likely caused by a tear, and if you just have pain, it may only be a rotator cuff impingement.

A tear can be partial, whereby only part of the tendon is ripped away from the bone it is attached to. Or there can be a full tear, causing the tendon to completely separate from the bone. Although younger people can have rotator cuff tears, they become more common as people age, possibly because the interface between the tendon and the bone weakens and becomes more susceptible to injury. The prevalence rises with each decade of life.

Compared with impingement, a tear is more likely to be caused by an injury. Common causes include falling on the ice, getting pulled by a dog on a leash, or tripping and landing on your shoulder. In other cases, problems crop up seemingly without cause. You might suddenly notice pain when lifting something over your head.

If you suspect a tear or are experiencing sudden pain from an injury, see a doctor right away, because you may need surgery to fix the problem. But if you aren’t experiencing weakness and the pain is not severe, rest and anti-inflammatory medications may be enough to ease your discomfort.

Calcific tendinitis. With calcific tendinitis, calcium deposits get embedded within the rotator cuff tendons. While it’s unclear exactly what causes these deposits to form, some experts believe they may result from a healing process in the ligament gone awry. The condition can cause severe pain that often starts in the morning. It’s more common in middle-aged and older adults and those who have diabetes.

Treatment is aimed at relieving pain and preserving range of motion of the shoulder. Options include anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy. If the pain is severe or persistent, your doctor may suggest surgery to remove the deposits.

Adhesive capsulitis. Commonly referred to as frozen shoulder, adhesive capsulitis is caused by a thickening and stiffening of the tissues around the shoulder joint. It typically develops in people ages 40 to 60. Frozen shoulder is more common in women than in men and in people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or thyroid disorders.

Frozen shoulder can occur after a rotator cuff impingement, a tendon tear, or even minor injury. But why some people go on to develop a frozen shoulder is not clear. Someone with shoulder pain may hesitate to move the arm as a result of those problems, which then leads to additional pain and stiffness. As a result, it may become virtually impossible to move the shoulder for weeks or months. The problem often goes away after a period of time — but that can take up to three years, according to the AAOS. Physical therapy is sometimes recommended for frozen shoulder. Other interventions include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, or, in some cases, surgery. But in most cases, it responds well to nonoperative treatment.

Osteoarthritis. When people think of osteoarthritis, they may think of the knee and the hip, which are common sites for arthritis pain. But while osteoarthritis affects the shoulder less often, it’s not uncommon. The condition develops when cartilage cushions between the bones in the shoulder erode, causing the bones to rub against one another. There are numerous treatments for osteoarthritis, including rest, modifications to activities, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, and surgery in some cases.

While you may be tempted to stop moving when you experience pain from osteoarthritis, doing so can actually make the problem worse because it allows the muscles to stiffen and shorten. This may ultimately make it even harder for you to move the way you want to.

Performing simple stretches two to three days a week (see “Simple shoulder stretch exercises”) can help keep your muscles flexible and reduce pain, provided your doctor approves.

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.

Pain in the shoulder joint of the right or left hand: causes and treatment

Symptoms of pain in the shoulder

Pain in the shoulder can be different depending on its cause.

Shoulder pain may be felt all the time or only occur when the shoulder is moved. Sometimes it doesn’t last long. If the pain does not go away, you should consult a doctor; he will examine and prescribe treatment.

If the discomfort worsens gradually and you cannot sleep on the side of the affected shoulder, it may be tendinitis or bursitis. With tendinitis, tendons become inflamed, with bursitis, too much fluid accumulates in the bag of the shoulder joint.

If you feel pain and have difficulty moving your shoulder, it may be called “frozen shoulder”.

How does shoulder pain affect us?

Shoulder joints provide freedom to lift and move the arms. But with pain in the shoulder, it becomes difficult even to comb your hair and get dressed. Shoulder pain is uncomfortable when we play sports, want to lift a heavy box or reach the top shelf of a closet.

Ease the pain

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that connects the humerus to the shoulder blade. Tendons stabilize the shoulder and muscles provide rotation in the joint.*

83% of people suffering from pain have experienced shoulder pain**

Relieve Pain

* Rotator Cuff (Human Anatomy) Picture, Function, Location. 2016. Rotator Cuff (Human Anatomy): Picture, Function, Location. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/picture-of-the-rotator-cuff (Retrieved 03/26/2019)
** According to the Global Pain Index 2018, 83% of people with pain have experienced shoulder pain

Why does shoulder pain occur?

Shoulder pain is due to a variety of causes, including inflammation of the tendons (bursitis and tendinitis), tendon rupture, and osteoarthritis.

Bursitis, tendonitis and tendon ruptures

Shoulder pain may be due to bursitis or tendinitis. With bursitis, the bag that separates the joint from the surrounding soft tissues becomes inflamed. Under the influence of loads, the tendons can gradually become inflamed; this condition is called tendinitis. With injuries and increased loads, the tendons are damaged, resulting in pain. Shoulder pain is more common in older people because the tendons weaken with age.

Diseases associated with pain in the shoulder

Impingement syndrome of the shoulder joint is a condition in which the tendons of the muscle are pressed against the overlying bone and constantly rub against it when moving, resulting in pain. Some people also suffer from frozen shoulder syndrome, a condition in which the elastic tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed. A person has pain and stiffness of movements in the shoulder joint.

Treatment

If pain in the shoulder occurs frequently, it is not necessary to postpone a visit to the doctor, and in case of severe pain and deterioration of health, it is necessary to do so immediately. The doctor will examine your shoulder for abnormalities, swelling, deformity and tenderness, as well as evaluate the range of motion in the shoulder joint and muscle strength. If necessary, the doctor will refer you to additional examinations (for example, x-rays) and prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve inflammation. To speed up recovery, the doctor may prescribe physiotherapy exercises and physiotherapy. OTC topical or internal pain medications, hot or cold compresses can also help relieve shoulder pain.0003

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Shoulder pain – causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment of diseases of the shoulder joint

Common injuries and diseases of the shoulder joint

Diagnostics

Methods of treatment of pain in the shoulder joint

Pain in the shoulder joints of the hands is one of the most common reasons for patients to visit an orthopedic traumatologist. They can be caused by various shoulder injuries (for example, those received when falling, twisting the arm, lifting weight from an uncomfortable position), and other factors (hypothermia, overexertion, repeated hand movements of the same type). In some cases, shoulder pain is a manifestation of serious diseases (for example, hernia of the cervical spine, autoimmune pathologies, benign and malignant neoplasms).

Pain in the shoulder joint is caused by damage to the cartilage of the head of the shoulder and the glenoid cavity, capsule, and soft tissues. Pain can be sharp, bursting, pulling, dull. The pain appears periodically or persists constantly, increases with movement, at a certain time of the day, depends on weather conditions.

Common injuries and diseases of the shoulder joint

Dislocation of the joint can occur if a person receives a strong blow to the shoulder or falls on a straightened arm. Such an injury is characterized by sharp pain, deformity of the shoulder joint, the appearance of a depression at the site of the head of the shoulder. At the same time, it is impossible to move the shoulder, and the acute pain does not go away until the joint is repositioned. The doctor adjusts the shoulder under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia.

Fractures occur with a strong blow, falling on the shoulder. With such an injury, a person feels severe pain, when trying to move, a crunch can be heard, swelling and pathological mobility appear. To prevent pain from getting worse, it is necessary to support the affected arm or fix it to limit movement.

Partial and complete ruptures of muscles and tendons present with acute pain that radiates to the neck or arm. When you raise your arm, the pain in your shoulder may get worse. Also, pain sensations can become more intense when rotating the hand, moving it to the side. With a complete rupture, the victim cannot move his arm.

Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendon sheaths) and bursitis (inflammation of the periarticular mucous bags) develop under the influence of various factors. The most common causes of such diseases include injuries, hypothermia, overexertion, which occur as a result of repetitive monotonous movements (for example, when working as a painter) or incorrect hand position during work (usually at a computer). Bursitis and tendinitis can develop secondarily as a manifestation of the underlying disease (usually systemic). At an early stage of such diseases, only minor discomfort is observed, which appears at the peak of the load. As the pathological process progresses, aching or pulling pain in the shoulder occurs during movement, even if the load on it is insignificant. Pain can also appear at rest, at night, a crunch is possible during movements.

In patients with adhesive capsulitis (an inflammatory disease of the joint capsule), pain usually occurs spontaneously, without any obvious external cause. Discomfort gradually increases, more often at night, if a person lies on a sore shoulder. Severe pain is permanent, prevents any movement.

Benign neoplasms develop slowly, for a long time they manifest mild symptoms. They are characterized by low-intensity pain of a local nature, which does not change its severity for a long time.

Pain in the shoulder of the right or left arm can also be caused by neurological causes, most often problems in the cervical region. In this case, the characteristic symptoms are the so-called “lumbago”, which are felt throughout the arm, pain in the shoulder joint when the arm is abducted, numbness and weakness in the fingers.

Diagnosis

To make an accurate diagnosis, an orthopedic traumatologist interviews the patient in detail to find out complaints, establish all the symptoms, the dynamics of their development, and dependence on various factors.

After that, the doctor conducts a complete examination and, based on the results, chooses a program for additional examination.

Ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, laboratory and invasive studies can be used to accurately diagnose shoulder pain.

Shoulder pain management

The orthopedic surgeon chooses the tactics of treatment depending on the diagnosis. In case of injuries, no independent actions should be taken before consulting a doctor and examining. Attempts to reduce the joint, jerks by the hand, massage, active movements of the limb can lead to aggravation of the injury and a significant increase in the duration of treatment.

To eliminate the causes of pain, physiotherapeutic procedures (for example, shock wave, laser and ultrasound therapy), drug treatment are used. In some cases, surgical treatment is indicated, most often arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery). It is important for the patient at all stages of treatment to strictly follow all the recommendations of the doctor, including the activity regimen.

Bruises, partial injuries of ligaments and tendons are treated conservatively. Usually, for patients with such injuries, the doctor prescribes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs orally and locally, a course of physiotherapy, and recommends functional rest. For a complete recovery in most cases, 3-4 weeks are enough.

For fractures, the doctor chooses the treatment method after examination, depending on the location of the fracture and the degree of displacement. If the displacement is small or absent, conservative treatment is sufficient. Surgical treatment (reposition, osteosynthesis using metal fixators) is indicated for patients with a fracture with a pronounced displacement.

Partial and complete ruptures of muscles and tendons require surgical treatment (arthroscopy, tendon suture). It is important to perform surgery as soon as possible to avoid complications.

Adhesive capsulitis should be treated as early as possible, as long-term immobilization of the joint can lead to contracture (scar tightening of the tendons).

In the event of discomfort in the shoulder area, the effectiveness of treatment depends on the timeliness of its initiation. If you experience pain in this area, you should not postpone a visit to the doctor.

Contact our clinic to get rid of pain and regain your freedom of movement.

The author of the article:

Starochkin Konstantin Anatolyevich

traumatologist-orthopedist, surgeon

work experience 18 years

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