SHOULDER PAIN
- Nov 6
- 5 min read
Disclaimer: The content of this blog post, authored by Dr. Moran Sciamama-Saghiv, is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No doctor–patient relationship is created by reading or applying the information. Readers should always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making decisions related to medications or treatment. Neither the author nor any affiliated party assumes any liability for actions taken based on this content.
Shoulder pain is a common complaint that can affect your daily life, limiting your ability to move freely and perform routine tasks. Understanding what causes shoulder pain, which muscles are involved, and how to prevent and treat it can help you manage discomfort and maintain shoulder health.
What Is Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort or ache in the shoulder area, which includes the joint, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The shoulder is one of the most flexible joints in your body, allowing a wide range of motion. This flexibility also makes it vulnerable to injury and strain. Pain can be sharp, dull, constant, or intermittent. It may worsen with movement or rest, depending on the cause. Sometimes, shoulder pain radiates down the arm or up to the neck, making it important to identify the source accurately.
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Leading Reasons for Shoulder Pain
Several factors can cause shoulder pain. Knowing the common reasons helps you recognize potential issues early.
Macromastia or Gigantomastia - These are the medical terms for abnormally large breasts. In such cases, the weight of the breasts tends to bend the trunk forward, causes overuse of the shoulder muscles as part of an overall attempt to stay erect (upright).
Rotator Cuff Injuries - The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears or inflammation in these tendons often cause pain, especially when lifting or rotating the arm.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) - This condition causes stiffness and pain due to thickening of the shoulder capsule. It limits movement and can develop gradually after injury or inactivity. Injuries or tightness in any of these muscles can cause pain or limit shoulder function.
Shoulder Impingements - When the tendons of the rotator cuff get pinched during shoulder movements, it causes pain and inflammation. This often happens with repetitive overhead activities.
Arthritis - Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Bursitis - Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder, causes pain and tenderness.
Dislocations or Fractures - Trauma or accidents can dislocate the shoulder or cause fractures, resulting in severe pain and limited movement.
Poor Posture and Overuse - Slouching or repetitive motions, especially in sports or certain jobs, strain shoulder muscles and tendons, leading to pain.
Muscles Usually Involved in Shoulder Pain
Understanding which muscles are involved helps you target treatment and prevention. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment to ensure it fits your specific condition.
Rotator Cuff Muscles - These include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. They stabilize the shoulder and control rotation.
Deltoid Muscle - This large muscle covers the shoulder and helps lift the arm.
Trapezius Muscle - Located in the upper back and neck, it supports shoulder movement and posture.
Rhomboids - These muscles connect the shoulder blades to the spine and assist in shoulder blade movement.
Pectoralis Major and Minor - Chest muscles that influence shoulder movement and stability.
How to Avoid Shoulder Pain
Preventing shoulder pain involves protecting your shoulder from injury and maintaining muscle strength and flexibility.
Practice Good Posture - Keep your shoulders back and avoid slouching, especially if you work at a desk or use a computer for long hours.
Warm Up Before Activity - Before exercising or doing repetitive tasks, warm up your shoulder muscles with gentle movements.
Strengthen Shoulder Muscles - Regularly perform exercises that target the rotator cuff, deltoids, and upper back muscles to build support.
Avoid Repetitive Overhead Movements - Limit activities that require frequent overhead arm use or take breaks to reduce strain.
Use Proper Technique - Whether lifting weights or performing daily tasks, use correct form to avoid unnecessary stress on your shoulder.
Maintain Flexibility - Stretch your shoulder muscles regularly to prevent tightness and improve range of motion.
Manage Weight - Excess body weight can increase strain on joints, including the shoulder.
How to Treat Shoulder Pain Medically
If you experience shoulder pain, medical treatment can help reduce discomfort and restore function.
Rest and Ice - Avoid activities that worsen pain and apply ice packs to reduce inflammation.
Pain Relievers - Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease pain and swelling.
Physical Therapy - A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and correct posture.
Corticosteroid Injections - For severe inflammation, doctors may recommend injections to reduce swelling and pain.
Surgery - In cases of severe rotator cuff tears, dislocations, or arthritis, surgery might be necessary to repair damage.
Imaging Tests - X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound can help diagnose the exact cause of shoulder pain.
How to Treat Shoulder Pain Holistically
Alongside medical care, holistic approaches can support healing and reduce pain.
Heat Therapy
Applying heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow.
Massage Therapy
Massage helps relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.
Acupuncture
Some people find relief through acupuncture, which targets specific points to reduce pain.
Mind-Body Techniques
Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can reduce stress and muscle tightness.
Diet and Supplements
Eating anti-inflammatory foods and considering supplements like omega-3 fatty acids may support joint health.
Ergonomic Adjustments
Modify your workspace or daily habits to reduce shoulder strain.
Regular Movement
Avoid long periods of inactivity to prevent stiffness.
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When to See a Doctor
Taking action early can prevent further damage and speed up recovery. Seek medical advice if you experience:
Severe or worsening pain
Shoulder deformity or inability to move the arm
Numbness or weakness in the arm or hand
Pain after an injury or fall
Symptoms lasting more than a few weeks despite home care
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