What are the common causes of arm pain. How can you identify symptoms of arm injuries. What treatment options are available for arm pain relief. How can Airrosti help with arm pain diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Arm Pain: Types and Locations

Arm pain is a complex issue that can manifest in various parts of the arm, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and even extend to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. The pain may result from sports-related injuries, soft tissue imbalances, joint problems, pinched nerves, or restricted blood flow.

Different types of arm pain include:

• Rotator cuff pain
• Elbow pain
• Wrist pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Common Causes of Arm Pain: From Overuse to Specific Conditions

Arm pain can develop suddenly due to acute injuries or gradually over time from repetitive motions and overuse. Our heavy reliance on arms for daily activities makes them susceptible to overwork and injury. Sometimes, arm pain may result from compensating for weakness in other muscle groups, such as the shoulders, neck, or back.

Identifying the specific location of pain can often help determine the underlying cause. For instance, upper arm pain might indicate a muscle strain in the bicep or tricep, while forearm and wrist pain could suggest conditions like tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Some common causes of arm pain include:

• Tennis Elbow
• Golfer’s Elbow
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Rotator Cuff Injuries
• Bicep/Tricep Tendonitis
• Shoulder Injuries
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Can arm pain be a sign of a heart attack?

In some cases, arm pain, particularly in the left arm, can be a symptom of a heart attack when combined with other signs such as excessive sweating, nausea, difficulty breathing, palpitations, fainting, or chest pain. If you experience these symptoms together, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services.

Recognizing Arm Injury Symptoms: Key Indicators to Watch For

The symptoms of arm pain can vary depending on the location and cause of the injury. It’s important to note that arm pain can sometimes be a symptom of issues in other parts of the body, such as the neck or shoulder joint.

Common signs of an arm injury include:

• Tenderness
• Redness
• Joint pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Reduced range of motion
• Swelling in the affected area of the arm or joints

For severe traumatic injuries like fractures, additional symptoms may include bruising and difficulty moving the arm. Depending on the cause, pain can onset suddenly or develop gradually over time.

How quickly do arm injury symptoms typically appear?

The onset of arm injury symptoms can vary widely. Acute injuries, such as those from sports or accidents, often cause immediate pain and visible symptoms. Overuse injuries, on the other hand, may develop slowly over time, with symptoms gradually worsening as the condition progresses. It’s essential to pay attention to any persistent discomfort or changes in arm function, even if they appear gradually.

Risk Factors for Arm Injuries: Age, Activity, and Form

Several factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing arm problems or injuries. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and seek appropriate care when needed.

• Age: Older adults have a higher chance of experiencing arm problems due to natural muscle mass loss that occurs with aging.
• Childhood: Children may be more susceptible to arm problems because of overuse injuries and their still-developing bone structure.
• Exercise habits: Individuals who exercise with improper form or push beyond their physical limits are at higher risk of sustaining arm injuries.
• Occupational factors: Certain jobs that require repetitive arm movements or heavy lifting can increase the risk of arm injuries.
• Previous injuries: A history of arm injuries can make an individual more prone to future problems in the same area.

How can proper form during exercise help prevent arm injuries?

Proper form during exercise is crucial for preventing arm injuries. It ensures that the correct muscles are engaged, reducing strain on joints and tendons. Good form also distributes force evenly across the body, minimizing the risk of overloading specific areas. When exercising, focus on maintaining proper alignment, using controlled movements, and avoiding jerky or rapid motions. If unsure about correct form, consider working with a qualified fitness professional or physical therapist to learn proper techniques.

Treatment Options for Arm Pain: From Home Remedies to Professional Care

The appropriate treatment for arm pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. For many overuse injuries, initial treatment often follows the RICE protocol:

• Rest: Allow the affected area time to heal by avoiding activities that cause pain.
• Ice: Apply cold packs to reduce inflammation and numb pain.
• Compression: Use elastic bandages to minimize swelling.
• Elevation: Keep the affected arm raised above heart level to reduce swelling.

For more severe pain, additional treatments may include:

• Use of a splint or sling to immobilize the affected area
• Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Corticosteroid injections for certain conditions

In cases of severe injuries, such as fractures or complete muscle tears, surgery may be recommended as a last resort.

When should you seek professional medical help for arm pain?

While many cases of arm pain can be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical help is necessary. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest and home treatments
• Visible deformity or severe swelling
• Inability to move your arm or perform daily activities
• Numbness or tingling that persists or worsens
• Signs of infection, such as fever or redness spreading from the injured area
• Pain accompanied by chest discomfort or difficulty breathing

Airrosti’s Approach to Arm Pain: Personalized Diagnosis and Treatment

Airrosti offers a unique approach to diagnosing and treating arm pain. Their providers conduct thorough evaluations to pinpoint the exact cause of pain and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific injury and needs.

The Airrosti treatment process typically involves:

1. Comprehensive assessment: Providers use hands-on techniques and detailed patient history to accurately diagnose the root cause of arm pain.
2. Targeted manual therapy: Specialized soft tissue treatment is applied to address the specific injury and promote healing.
3. Customized exercises: Patients receive personalized exercise plans to support recovery and prevent future injuries.
4. Education and resources: Airrosti provides tools and knowledge to help patients understand their condition and actively participate in their recovery.

How does Airrosti’s treatment differ from traditional approaches to arm pain?

Airrosti’s treatment approach differs from traditional methods in several key ways:

• Focus on root cause: Rather than just treating symptoms, Airrosti aims to identify and address the underlying cause of arm pain.
• Hands-on treatment: Providers use manual therapy techniques to target specific areas of injury or dysfunction.
• Rapid results: Many patients experience significant improvement in just a few visits.
• Active patient involvement: Patients are given exercises and education to support their recovery and prevent future issues.
• Holistic approach: Treatment considers the entire kinetic chain, not just the area of pain.

Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Arm Health and Avoiding Injuries

While not all arm injuries can be prevented, there are several strategies individuals can employ to reduce their risk and maintain overall arm health:

1. Proper warm-up: Always warm up before engaging in physical activities or sports that involve arm use.
2. Strength training: Regularly perform exercises to strengthen arm, shoulder, and upper back muscles.
3. Flexibility: Incorporate stretching exercises to maintain flexibility in arm muscles and joints.
4. Ergonomics: Ensure proper ergonomics at work and home, especially when using computers or performing repetitive tasks.
5. Rest and recovery: Allow adequate rest between intense activities and listen to your body’s signals.
6. Technique improvement: Learn and practice proper techniques for sports and physical activities to reduce injury risk.
7. Gradual progression: Increase the intensity and duration of activities gradually to avoid overuse injuries.

How can proper ergonomics help prevent arm pain in office workers?

Proper ergonomics can significantly reduce the risk of arm pain for office workers by:

• Reducing strain on muscles and joints
• Promoting better posture
• Minimizing repetitive stress injuries
• Improving circulation

Key ergonomic considerations include:

• Adjusting chair height so arms are parallel to the floor when typing
• Positioning the keyboard and mouse at a comfortable distance
• Using ergonomic accessories like wrist rests or vertical mice
• Taking regular breaks to stretch and move
• Ensuring proper monitor height to reduce neck and shoulder strain

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Arm Pain

While many cases of arm pain can be managed with conservative treatments, there are situations where immediate medical attention is crucial. Understanding these scenarios can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and potentially prevent serious complications.

Seek emergency medical care if you experience arm pain along with:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sudden, severe pain accompanied by a popping or tearing sensation
• Visible deformity of the arm
• Signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness spreading from a wound
• Loss of sensation or inability to move the arm

How can you differentiate between arm pain from overuse and potentially serious conditions?

Distinguishing between arm pain from overuse and more serious conditions can be challenging, but there are some key differences to consider:

• Onset: Overuse pain typically develops gradually, while pain from serious conditions often comes on suddenly.
• Location: Overuse pain is usually localized to specific muscles or joints, while pain from heart issues may radiate or feel more diffuse.
• Associated symptoms: Serious conditions often come with additional symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or dizziness.
• Response to rest: Overuse pain typically improves with rest, while pain from serious conditions may persist or worsen.
• Intensity: While overuse pain can be severe, pain from serious conditions is often described as unbearable or unlike anything experienced before.

If you’re unsure about the cause of your arm pain, especially if it’s severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical evaluation.

Arm Pain | Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

If nagging arm pain has left you with reduced range of motion and struggling to perform basic tasks, you may be dealing with an underlying injury. Join Airrosti’s Brooke Green, DC, as she explains the common causes and injuries associated with arm pain. She also covers traditional treatment methods and how Airrosti can help you find arm pain relief.

what is arm pain?

Arm pain can present itself in various sections of the arm. You may experience pain in the rotator cuff or shoulder, elbow pain, wrist pain, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Arm pain is often caused by a sports or activity-related injury, but can also be caused by soft tissue imbalance, a joint injury, a pinched nerve, or restricted blood flow.

WHAT CAUSES ARM PAIN?

While we usually think of an arm injury as something that happens during activity, it can also occur over a long period of time. Because of our reliance on our arms to complete everyday tasks, they can easily become overworked. Overuse injuries involving the arm can develop if the arm is used to compensate for weakness in other muscles, like the shoulders, neck, or back.

Identifying the specific location of your pain can often help determine the type of injury involved. A muscle strain in your bicep or tricep will most likely be felt in the upper arm. Injuries like tennis elbow and carpal tunnel syndrome will likely manifest pain in the forearm and wrist.

Common causes of arm pain include:

• Tennis Elbow
• Golfer’s Elbow
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Rotator Cuff Pain
• Bicep/Tricep Tendonitis
• Shoulder Pain
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

SYMPTOMS OF AN ARM INJURY

Symptoms of arm pain may vary based on the location of the injury. In some cases, arm pain can be a symptom of a problem in other parts of the body, like your neck or shoulder joint.

Potential signs of an arm injury include:

• Tenderness
• Redness
• Joint pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Reduced range of motion
• Swelling in the affected area of the arm or joints

Severe traumatic injuries like fractures may feature additional symptoms like bruising and difficulty moving your arm. Depending on the cause, pain can start suddenly or develop over time.

Pain in the left arm, combined with excessive sweating, nausea, difficulty breathing, palpitations, fainting, or chest pain can be signs of a heart attack. Please call 911 if you think you might be having a heart attack.

ARM INJURY RISK FACTORS

Older adults have a greater chance of having arm problems because they lose muscle mass as they age. Children may have arm problems because of overuse injuries.  Injuries in children occur more often because their bones have not fully developed. Individuals who exercise with improper form, or try to exercise beyond their limits, are also more likely to sustain an arm injury. 

ARM PAIN TREATMENT OPTIONS

The treatment for arm pain depends on the underlying cause. For pain due to overuse injuries, the treatment typically includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

If the pain is more severe, a splint or sling, or anti-inflammatory medications for pain may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, like fractures or complete muscle tears, surgery may be recommended.

HOW AIRROSTI CAN HELP: ARM PAIN DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND PAIN RELIEF

At Airrosti, our providers will conduct a thorough evaluation of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan for your specific injury. In addition, we also provide tools and resources that can boost your recovery and help you avoid future pain..

Don’t let chronic arm pain hold you back. schedule an appointment with an Airrosti provider today and get back to doing the things you love most, pain free.

We offer convenient remote telehealth options in addition to in-office visits. Call us today at (800) 404-6050 to learn more about treatment at Airrosti or find a provider near you.

Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic

Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.

Patient Testimonials

I’m so glad I went back to Dr. Tong. Years ago, she helped my hip pain from giving birth. This time I had numbness and tingling in my arm for over a week and it scared me. I thought it wasn’t something I could wait to be over, but then I remembered her and made an appointment via Airrosti. She instantly diagnosed the site and the cause of the injury and created a treatment plan for me. With an exercise coaching program on their app, I quickly shook off the symptoms in a few appointments. I believe Dr. Tong is on top of her profession. She is very knowledgeable, and I trust her 100%. Making an appointment is quick and easy, and all pre-appt questionnaires are paperless and done over the app/web. The location is also easy to find and e…+ show moreasily accessible. There is no waiting at check-in. I would recommend her and Airrosti highly!

by Karen Wang

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Arm Pain Causes and Relief

Causes of Arm Pain

What can cause chronic arm pain and how can you find relief? The answer depends on the underlying condition. Causes of severe arm pain can include conditions, such as:

• Exercise or overuse (muscle aches)
• Repetitive joint use (bursitis or joint inflammation)
• Bone fractures
• Joint dislocations
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Muscle, ligament or tendon strains (tendinitis) or sprains
• Fibromyalgia
• Skeletal structure irregularities
• Arthritis
• Cardiac disorders or heart attack (angina)
• Angina pectoris that radiates to the arm
• Nerve damage
• Spine conditions such as cervical disk herniation
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Osteoporosis
• Infection
• Carpel tunnel syndrome
• Rotator cuff injury
• Other underlying conditions

It is important that you find out what causes your arms to ache, as there are many reasons for arm pain. At The Pain Center, we can help diagnose the cause to help you find relief.

Arm Pain Symptoms and Diagnosis

Be sure to inform your doctor of all your symptoms. Arm pain symptoms may include:

• Pain in the wrist, elbow or shoulder
• Arm weakness
• Pain in one or both arms
• Upper arm pain
• Sudden arm pain in the right arm
• Redness or discoloration of the skin on the arm
• Swelling of the arm, wrist, or elbow
• Stiffness in the joints
• Arm skin that is warm to the touch
• Itching or throbbing skin
• Pain that worsens when exercising
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle pain / muscle aches
• Tenderness
• Reduced range of motion
• Muscle cramps / sore arm

To diagnose the cause of your pain, your doctor will ask you questions about your health and family history, and do a physical examination. Other tests that can help diagnose the source of your pain include X-rays, MRI scan, CT scan, EMG/Nerve conduction studyand blood tests. It is important that your condition is properly diagnosed so that you can receive the most effective treatment. 

How to Treat Arm Pain

How can you ease the discomfort of arm pain symptoms? Your treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of your arm pain.

Treatment may start with conservative therapies, such as over-the-counter aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These nonprescription medications can be effective for certain types of arm pain when taken according to instructions. You may also consider home care such as drinking plenty of water to reduce muscle cramps. Stretching and massage can help. You may also try using heating or cold packs, taking warm baths or showers, and resting your arms. Elevate your arm(s) when you lie down. Compression bandaging can help reduce swelling.

The pain management specialists at The Pain Center may also recommend the following interventional pain therapies to reduce your arm pain:

• Prescription medications / medication management
• Topical agents (creams)
• Injections such as steroid medications
• Spinal Cord Stimulator
• Physical therapy (can include exercises, heat and cold therapy, and electrical nerve stimulation-TENS unit)
• Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments and/or massage 

Some of the interventional medical therapies we provide at The Pain Center include:

Our pain specialists can prescribe and regulate medication that you use to help control your pain. The pain management specialists will provide you with the knowledge you need to take your medications properly.

The Pain Center takes a conservative approach with medication management. We try to limit prescription medications to help avoid dependence.

One option for treating pain is injection of a steroid that can help reduce pain and inflammation. This can be very effective for arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

A nerve block is an injection therapy that reduces pain caused by nerves. This can help treat arm pain, radicular pain and/or peripheral neuropathy. This procedure injects a combination of local anesthetic agents around the peripheral nerve branches for optimal pain relief. Peripheral nerve blocks provide relief that lasts from a few weeks to a few months, depending upon the patient’s condition.

Spinal cord stimulation is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that requires the implantation of a nerve stimulation device. This treatment delivers low-voltage electrical currents to areas of the spine, ultimately reducing pain signals caused by chronic pain in the arm(s). Patients living with chronic pain, who have not responded to conservative treatments for at least six months, may be candidates for this procedure. A trial device is implanted before a permanent device is considered.

Contact The Pain Center today to learn more about how we can help you effectively manage your arm pain.

When Further Arm Pain Treatment is Required

Based on the underlying condition, further treatments may be required. If there is something that can be addressed by another type of specialist, we will refer you to the appropriate specialty doctor.

Commonly Asked Questions about Arm Pain

What causes arm pain?

Because arm pain has a number of causes, from muscle strains to traumatic injury or underlying conditions such as arthritis, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis upfront. Your doctor or pain specialist will help to diagnose and assess the cause of your arm pain to determine the most effective course of treatment for you.

What is the best treatment for upper arm pain symptoms?

The best treatment for you will depend upon your health situation and the cause of your pain. Your pain specialist will work with you to create a custom set of treatments to help you get relief from your pain and get back to your normal routine of activities. Your pain specialist will give you the information you need to understand and manage your condition.

How can the cause of my arm pain be diagnosed?

The Pain Center will work to diagnose your pain, or work with another specialist to help, if necessary. We will do an examination and ask you about your health and family history, and can provide additional tests such as blood tests or medical imaging (such as MRI or CT scans).

What can I do at home to help ease my discomfort?

There are many therapies you can use at home to help with arm pain, such as over-the-counter pain relievers (use as directed), rest, massage, elevation of the arm(s), cold or hot packs, and careful stretching.

I have been having neck problems. Could my arm pain be related to my neck?

It is possible for neck problems to cause pain in the arms. Sometimes, disc protrusion/herniation or degenerative changes in the cervical spine can cause pain that radiates out to the arm or hand.

I don’t have underlying conditions that could cause arm pain. What else could cause my symptoms?

Arm pain can be caused by overuse, anatomic abnormalities, or traumatic injuries such as falls. Your pain specialist can help determine the cause of your arm pain.

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

Common injuries and diseases of the shoulder joint

Diagnosis

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 are manifested by 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.

Ultrasound, 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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Shoulder muscle pain

Differential diagnosis of pain in the muscles of the shoulder

One of the most common upper musculoskeletal pain symptoms is shoulder muscle pain . Pain can be associated with inflammation of the bone tissue, joints, but more often they are directly caused by the pathology of the periarticular structures – ligaments, muscles, tendons.

A high percentage of diagnosed diseases of the soft tissues of the shoulder is explained by the specifics of the biomechanics and anatomical structure of the shoulder joint, as well as the physiological features of the structure of the tendon and muscle tissue.

It should be noted that the generally accepted concept of “shoulder” is somewhat different from the definition of this anatomical zone by doctors:

• The upper arm is the area of ​​the upper arm, starting at the joint of the shoulder and ending at the elbow.
• The shoulder girdle is the entire upper surface (girdle) of the arms connecting them to the body, including the deltoid, small and large, supraspinatus and infraspinatus, round and subscapularis muscle.

The shoulder joint and its surrounding tissues are considered to be one of the most complex and multifunctional structures of the body; the range of movements in it is varied due to the mobility of the periarticular system, including muscles. The developed musculoskeletal apparatus of the shoulder allows a person to perform rotational, circular, flexion, extensor, rotational and many other types of movements, however, as much as the system of soft tissues and tendons is multifunctional, it is so vulnerable to various diseases.

Pain in the muscles of the shoulder may be the result of inflammation, damage to the actual periarticular tissues, but it may also be a concomitant background symptom of an underlying disease that is not directly related to the musculoskeletal system. That is why it is so important to identify the causes of pain, timely diagnosis.

Causes of shoulder muscle pain

Periarticular pain in the shoulder is most often provoked by joint instability, which in turn can be caused by such factors:

• Overexertion, sprain of the ligaments of the shoulder girdle during intensive strength training.
• Damage, inflammation of the articular bag.
• Stretching of the muscles located near the articular capsule, as a result of compensatory self-correction of the function of the joint.
• Glenoid cartilage injury, lack of support for the biceps.

In general, the causes of pain in the muscles of the shoulder can be divided into three nosological categories:

• Insulation Degenerative, inflammatory or traumatic injury to muscle tendons:
  • Rotator cuff tendonitis.
  • Calcific tendinitis.
  • Biceps tendinitis.
  • Various types of tendon ruptures.
• Widespread (diffuse) lesion of the shoulder joint capsule of a non-inflammatory nature – capsulitis
• Complex damage to the periarticular system – subacromial syndrome.

A detailed description of the causes of pain in the muscles of the shoulder.

• Tendinitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. Tendon injury inevitably entails pain in the muscles of the shoulder due to the close anatomical relationship of these structures. Tendonitis can affect both the rotator cuff muscle and the biceps, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and subscapularis muscles. In addition, there is calcific tendonitis, in which calcifications accumulate in the tissues of the tendon.
• Inflammation of the tendon of the inner zone of the shoulder, flexor muscle, tendonitis of the biceps. The pain is characterized by intensity, constancy, aggravated by the movement of the hands.
• Inflammation of the joint – bursitis. The disease is closely related to overexertion, sports injuries. In addition to the pain symptom, bursitis is manifested by swelling in the bursa zone, often the pain radiates to the arm, limiting the range of motion.
• Frozen shoulder syndrome or retractile capsulitis. This is a syndrome of reflex dystrophic damage to the shoulder joint capsule with parallel damage to bone structures in the form of osteoporosis.
• Shoulder-scapular periarthrosis is a syndrome that is still being actively studied, since its true etiology has not been elucidated. In addition, the nature of pain in shoulder-scapular periarthrosis can vary from acute, intensifying pain to aching, constant. The pain does not subside at rest, may be accompanied by insomnia, significantly limits the movement of the hand.
• Myofascial pain syndrome is a typical disease of muscle tissue in various areas of the body, however, the favorite location for MFPS is the shoulder girdle, lower back. Myalgia that accompanies tense muscles develops in well-defined places – trigger points.
• Vertebrogenic causes of pain in the muscles of the shoulder most often lie in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, when a secondary complication develops – radiculopathy. It is believed that osteochondrosis can be one of the factors provoking humeroscapular periarthritis, periarthrosis.

Also, pain in the muscles of the shoulder girdle can be caused by such syndromes, diseases:

Since the pain muscle symptom is most often not acute, it is not always possible to identify its causes in a timely manner. More often, the patient goes to the doctor with an already formed chronic pain syndrome and many accompanying reactions, signs, which greatly complicates the diagnosis of muscle pain in the shoulder girdle.

Shoulder muscle pain symptoms

Pain in the shoulder girdle can have dozens of different causes, respectively, the symptoms of pain in the muscles of the shoulder can be variable depending on the etiology and pathogenetic mechanism of development. The most significant and most common pain in the shoulder is nociceptive, which in turn is accompanied by many side effects and reactions. In addition, the nociceptive nature of the symptom allows you to launch a cascade of psychosomatic, psychogenic sensations, which makes it extremely difficult to quickly diagnose and relieve pain. It is believed that in 65-70% of cases, pain develops slowly, gradually as a reflex tonic response to a systematic overstrain of the muscles of the shoulder girdle. The load on the shoulders can be both dynamic and static, in any case, muscle hypertonicity is accompanied by constant aching sensations that do not subside at rest and even at night.

Symptoms of pain in the muscles of the shoulder can be localized at the sites of damage to the tendons, joints, ligaments, but can also be diffuse mi fibromyalgia, myofascial syndrome.

How to identify the area of ​​damage? Pain symptom and restriction of arm movement

What can become inflamed, damaged

• Pain when pulling one or both arms back
• Damage to the subacromial bursa, inflammation in the supraspinatus muscle, in the tendon (inflammation, tendon sprain)
• Shoulders hurt when both arms are fully raised vertically
• Inflammation, degenerative change of the clavicular-acromial joint and damage to the surrounding muscles
• Pain when trying to comb your hair, throw your arms behind your head, with external rotation of the arms
• Teres minor or infraspinatus tendon strain
• Aching pain when putting the arm back behind the back
• Subscapularis tendon strain or inflammation
• Pain symptom when bending the arm at the elbow and when lifting loads, turning the hand – the key in the door (shoulder supination)
• Sprain, inflammation of the biceps of the shoulder girdle, tendon
• Pain when moving the arm behind the back (removing an object from the back pocket)
• Pain with internal rotation of the shoulder
• Damage (stretching, inflammation) of the subscapularis muscle of the shoulder
• All arm movements, head movements, neck movements cause pain, movements are severely limited
• Inflammatory process in the shoulder joint capsule, in periarticular tissues.

Shoulder muscle pain diagnostics

Diagnosis of pain in the muscles of the shoulder can be accurate if:

• Specific location of pain.
• The debut of pain and diagnosis in the initial period of the development of the syndrome.
• Absence or presence of specific signs accompanying muscle pain.

Diagnosis of pain in the muscles of the shoulder may include the following steps:

• Examination of a patient with pain in the shoulder.
• Determination of the symmetry of the location of the shoulder blades, arms, collarbones (with paresis, the lowering of the shoulder from the side of the lesion is clearly visible).
• Visual detection, palpation examination of muscles for the presence of hypotrophic areas. Muscle hypotrophy is especially characteristic during a long neurogenic process (more than 14 days).
• Tests to identify possible paresis.
• Tests that reveal the balance and ratio of active and passive movements.
• Test to determine the resistance force, function of the large and small muscles of the chest, muscles of the shoulder girdle.
• Determination of the strength of the flexor and extensor muscles.
• Identification of symptoms similar to signs of radicular syndrome.
• Evaluation and definition of tendon reflexes.
• Palpation of points of radicular exits, identification of signs of radicular lesions.
• Identification of diagnostically important trigger points for the confirmation of fibromyalgia, MFPS (myofascial pain syndrome).

Also, to specify the diagnostic findings, an x-ray of the spine (cervical-shoulder, chest area) can be prescribed, neurovisual methods can be used – MRI, CT, ultrasound of the joints, as well as vascular Dopplerography and electrophysiological examinations to determine muscle tone

How to distinguish joint and muscle pain in the shoulder girdle

Diagnostic signs of various pains.

Articular pathologies

Characteristics of the pain symptom of joint pain

• The pain is constant, does not subside at rest, slightly increases with movement.
• Pain develops in response to a specific movement
• Shoulder pain area
• Pain is often diffuse, diffuse
• Pain is clearly localized, bordered
• Dependence on active or passive movements
• Significant limitation of the volume of all types of traffic
• Reducing the volume of active movements and at the same time maintaining all types of passive movements unchanged
• Presence or absence of edema
• Puffiness is often visible to the naked eye, effusion is detected

Diseases of muscle tissue (periarticular structures)

Muscle pain often provokes body asymmetry, and is also characterized by swelling in the joint area with bursitis

Shoulder muscle pain treatment

The general rules that involve the treatment of pain in the muscles of the shoulder are very similar to the stages and methods of therapy for diseases of the joints, musculoskeletal system. .

Treatment of muscle pain in the shoulder girdle:

• Neutralization of all factors provoking pain – immobilization of the arm, shoulder, often – complete rest.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in tablet form, as well as in the form of ointments, gels.
• Pain relief with compresses (30% dimexide solution).
• Injection of corticosteroids into the affected area is possible.
• Periarticular administration of homeopathic remedies – Traumeel, Zeel.
• Activation of the trophism of periarticular tissues, improvement of metabolic processes with the help of physiotherapeutic procedures.
• Appointment of a complex containing vitamins of group B, microelements.
• Muscle massage, including massage with joint development.

As a rule, therapy for mild muscle pains that have developed as a result of muscle overstrain does not last more than 3-5 days. A reasonable rest, adjustment of training exercises and a gentle, warming massage are quite enough. The remaining cases require a comprehensive diagnosis, often a dynamic examination (observation of the state of the shoulder girdle in motion) and the appointment of a course of drugs that reduce the perception of pain, improve the trophism of muscle fibers, and neutralize inflammation.

Prevention of pain in the muscles of the shoulder

Preventive measures aimed at getting rid of pain in the shoulder girdle, first of all, depend on the cause, the identified provoking factor. Basically, the prevention of pain in the muscles of the shoulder is a training system designed for athletes who actively use the shoulder girdle. The following rules for strengthening the “corset” of periarticular tissues also help reduce the risk of developing muscle pain in the shoulder:

• It is necessary to ensure the proper rigidity of the bed, sleep on a small pillow.
• Daily warm up of all muscles, including muscles, tendons of the shoulder.
• At the slightest painful symptoms in the shoulder, limit the movement of the arm on the side of pain and give them a little rest.
• If a person, on duty, performs monotonous, rhythmic movements with his hands (painter, conveyor line operator, and so on), massages of the shoulder area should be carried out regularly, possibly using essential oils, warming and relaxing gels.
• All exercises from the complex of physiotherapy exercises should not be performed intensively and for a long time, charging should not exceed 15-20 minutes in the morning and no more than 30 minutes during the day (2-3 sets, each for 15 minutes).

Pain in the muscles of the shoulder is a very common symptom inherent in our age of speed and physical inactivity. Unfortunately, shoulder symptoms provoked by physical exercises do not exceed 25-30% of all cases, they are based on overstrain of the shoulder muscles as a result of a long static posture, hypothermia and atony, muscle weakness.