Shoulder pain is a generalized term often used by patients to describe a hindrance to function with regards to the shoulder.

This dysfunction can be a feeling of stiffness, reduced mobility and flexibility, dull ache or sharp shooting pain at rest or with movement as well as a feeling of weakness, numbness and tingling locally or radiating down the arm.

Shoulder injuries present differently based on the diagnosis and can involve joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments and can be accompanied by neck pain and back pain

Shoulder Pain Common Causes

Pain in shoulder may occur due to several reasons which we are going to discuss just a few. Some of your shoulder pain causes could be:

  • Frozen Shoulder or Adhesive Capsulitis
  • Rotator Cuff Tear/Injury
  • Dislocation
  • Sports Injuries
  • Impingement
  • Tendinitis
  • Arthritis
  • Spinal Misalignment
  • Abnormal Movement Patterns
  • Bursitis

Shoulder Pain Symptoms

Shoulder pain symptoms differ among individuals due to the diverse causes and underlying issues associated with it. The following symptoms are the most common ones:

  • Inflammation and Swelling
  • Experiencing Discomfort
  • Limited Movement
  • Sensation of Stiffness
  • Altered Body Alignment
  • Numbness and Tingling Locally

Shoulder Pain Treatment Options

When your shoulder hurts or doesn’t work right, it means something’s not quite right in your shoulder joint. It’s super important to deal with these shoulder problems early on. Usually, treating them sooner can stop the pain from getting worse or make it go away completely.

There are various treatment options available for shoulder pain; however, the following ones are more common:

FAQ

  1. What are the main causes of shoulder pain?

    Shoulder pain can be caused by injuries, overuse, arthritis, muscle strain or referred pain from other parts of the body. 

  2. How can physical therapy help with shoulder pain?

    Physical therapy can help with pain management,  improve shoulder strength, range of motion, and reduce inflammation. Physical therapy can also aid in post surgery rehab.

  3. When should I seek medical attention for shoulder pain?

    If you experience severe pain or discomfort, shoulder instability, numbness or tingling down the arms, swelling, or difficulty moving the shoulder, medical attention is necessary.

  4. What treatments are available for shoulder pain relief?

    Treatments include physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery depending on the severity.

  5. How long does it take to recover from shoulder pain?