What Causes Shoulder Pain?
Understanding the root cause of your shoulder pain is the first step toward finding the right relief and treatment options.
Common causes of shoulder pain include injury, overuse, or general wear and tear of the joints and muscles of the shoulder. Performing repetitive movements may also contribute to shoulder pain.
Some specific causes of shoulder pain include:
- Trauma
Injuries or sprains affecting the shoulder joints, ligaments, or soft tissues that support and stabilise the bones often occur due to falls or direct impacts on the shoulder.
- Rotator cuff tears
These are particularly common in older adults and may develop gradually over time as part of the aging process or as a result of repetitive use.
- Osteoarthritis
Occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones becomes damaged or wears away.
- Pain arising from elsewhere
This pain may be caused by nerve issues originating in the neck or upper back, or it could be referred pain from other areas in the upper body, or in more severe cases malignancy in disease.
What are the Symptoms of Shoulder Pain?
Once you understand the causes, it’s important to recognise the symptoms of shoulder pain early.
Common shoulder pain symptoms include:
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Limited range of motion, making daily activities difficult
- Muscle weakness in the shoulder or upper arm
- Persistent dull ache
- Sharp, shooting pain
- Pain that disrupts sleep, particularly when lying on the affected side
How to Relieve Shoulder Pain
When shoulder pain strikes, it’s advisable to take immediate action to prevent worsening discomfort. Combining home care with suitable treatments can help you find relief and restore shoulder mobility effectively.
You can help ease shoulder pain by:
- Gently moving your shoulder
- Doing shoulder exercises for 6 to 8 weeks to help prevent pain from returning
- Resting your arm on a cushion in your lap
- Standing up upright with your shoulders down and gently back
- Sitting with a cushion behind your lower back
See a Physiotherapist
Your GP may refer you to a physiotherapist. Your physiotherapist will provide you with exercises to help improve strength and function.
Pain Relief Medications
Medications can help provide relief from pain and inflammation, while you’re recovering.
- Paracetamol: Helps manage mild to moderate pain.
- Ibuprofen: With anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce pain.
Support with Nurofen Pain Relief
- Nurofen Express Tablets: Fast-acting relief for pain
- Nurofen Joint and Muscular Pain Relief Medicated Plaster: For targeted relief by delivering the anti-inflammatory benefits of ibuprofen directly to the affected area.
Always follow usage instructions and consult a doctor if pain persists.
Can shoulder pain be prevented?
Not all cases of shoulder pain are preventable, especially if they’re the result of an accident, injury or underlying condition.
You can reduce your risk of injuring your shoulder by:
- Wearing protective equipment.
- Stopping an activity if you feel pain.
- Stretching, warming up and cooling down before and after playing sports or exercising.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Shoulder Pain
While many cases of shoulder pain improve with home care, some symptoms indicate the need for professional evaluation. Seeking timely help can prevent further complications and ensure effective treatment.
Visit a healthcare provider if you:
- Notice that your pain is getting worse
- Have limited movement or function in your arm
If you also experience chest pain or difficulty breathing along with your shoulder pain, go to the emergency room right away.
This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.
Always read the product label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.
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