Guide to Shoulder Pain Treatment: What You Need to Know 

Introduction 

Shoulder pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages. Whether it’s from an injury, overuse, or just daily activities, shoulder pain can make even simple tasks feel challenging. Understanding the causes of shoulder pain and knowing how to treat it is important for keeping your shoulders healthy and pain-free. 

In this guide, we’ll explore what you need to know about shoulder pain treatment. From home remedies to medical options, we’ll cover everything you need to help your shoulder feel better and get back to doing the things you love. 

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain 

Shoulder pain can happen for many reasons, and understanding the cause is the first step in finding the proper treatment. Here are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain: 

• Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help your shoulder move and stay stable. Injuries to the rotator cuff, like tears or strains, can cause pain and limit your shoulder’s movement. 

• Arthritis: Arthritis in the shoulder can lead to pain and stiffness. This condition usually develops over time and can make it difficult to lift your arm or perform everyday tasks. 

• Bursitis: Bursitis occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion your shoulder joint, become inflamed. This can cause pain, especially when you move your shoulder. 

• Tendinitis: Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons in your shoulder. It’s often caused by repetitive motions or overuse, such as in sports or certain jobs that require lifting. 

• Frozen Shoulder: Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder becomes stiff and painful, often due to lack of movement. It can develop after an injury or surgery if the shoulder is not used for a long time. You can read more about reasons why your shoulder may hurt at Modern Orthopaedics.

Symptoms That Require Treatment 

It’s important to know when shoulder pain needs more than just rest and home care.  

Here are some symptoms that might mean you need shoulder pain treatment: 

• Severe Pain: If the pain is very intense and doesn’t get better with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers, it’s time to see a doctor. 

• Swelling or Redness: Swelling, redness, or warmth around the shoulder could be a sign of infection or another serious condition. 

• Limited Movement: If you can’t move your shoulder normally or if it feels stuck, you should get it checked out. 

• Numbness or Tingling: These symptoms could indicate nerve damage, which needs prompt medical attention. 

• Pain that Worsens Over Time: If your shoulder pain is getting worse instead of better, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. 

At-Home Shoulder Pain Relief Methods 

For mild shoulder pain, there are several things you can do at home to help relieve the discomfort. Here are some simple methods to try: 

• Rest: Give your shoulder a break by avoiding activities that make the pain worse. Resting allows the injured tissues to heal. 

• Ice: Applying ice to the sore area can reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Use an ice pack for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. 

• Compression: Wrapping your shoulder with an elastic bandage can help reduce swelling and provide support. 

• Elevation: Keeping your shoulder elevated, especially when sleeping, can help reduce swelling and pain. 

• Gentle Stretching: Once the pain starts to improve, gentle stretches can help restore movement and prevent stiffness. 

Medical Treatments for Shoulder Pain 

If your shoulder pain is more severe or doesn’t improve with home care, you may need to consider medical treatments. Here are some options: 

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy involves exercises and techniques designed to strengthen your shoulder and improve its range of motion. A physical therapist can create a customized plan to help you recover. Learn more about how PT can help treat shoulder pain at Scottsdale Physical Therapy & Performance. 

• Corticosteroid Injections: These injections can help reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder. They are often used when other treatments haven’t provided enough relief. 

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn tissues or remove damaged parts of the shoulder joint. Surgery is usually considered when other treatments have failed. 

• Alternative Treatments: Some people find relief through alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care. These methods can be used alongside traditional treatments to help manage pain. 

Exercises to Strengthen and Prevent Shoulder Pain 

Keeping your shoulder strong and flexible can help prevent pain and injury. Here are some exercises that can help: 

• Shoulder Rotations: Stand or sit with your arms at your sides. Slowly rotate your shoulders forward in a circular motion, then backward. This helps warm up the muscles and improve flexibility. 

• Arm Circles: Extend your arms out to the sides and make small circles with your hands. Gradually increase the size of the circles. This exercise strengthens the shoulder muscles and improves the range of motion. 

• Wall Push-Ups: Stand facing a wall with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Place your hands on the wall and perform push-ups by bending your elbows and bringing your chest towards the wall. This exercise strengthens the muscles around the shoulder joint. 

• Shoulder Blade Squeezes: Sit or stand with your arms at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and hold for a few seconds before releasing. This exercise strengthens the muscles that support the shoulder. 

When to See a Doctor 

While many cases of shoulder pain can be managed at home, it’s important to know when to seek professional help. You should see a doctor if: 

• Your pain is severe and not improving with rest or over-the-counter treatments. 

• You notice swelling, redness, or warmth around your shoulder. 

• You have difficulty moving your shoulder or if it feels stuck. 

• You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm. 

• Your pain is getting worse over time. 

Prevention Tips for Shoulder Pain 

Preventing shoulder pain involves caring for your shoulders and avoiding activities that can lead to injury. Here are some tips: 

• Stay Active: Regular exercise helps keep your shoulders strong and flexible. Include shoulder-strengthening exercises in your routine. 

• Practice Good Posture: Maintain good posture, especially when sitting for long periods. Poor posture can strain the shoulders and lead to pain. 

• Warm Up Before Activities: Before engaging in sports or heavy lifting, take the time to warm up your shoulder muscles with gentle stretches and movements. 

• Avoid Overuse: If you perform repetitive motions with your shoulders, take breaks to avoid overuse injuries. Alternate activities to give your shoulders a rest. 

• Ergonomic Adjustments: Make sure your workstation is set up to support good posture and reduce strain on your shoulders. This includes adjusting your chair, desk, and computer monitor to the right height. 

Conclusion 

Shoulder pain can be a frustrating and painful experience, but with the right treatment and preventive measures, you can keep your shoulders healthy and pain-free. Remember to seek medical advice if your pain is severe or persistent, and take steps to prevent shoulder injuries by staying active and practicing good posture. With the information in this guide, you’re well-equipped to manage and treat shoulder pain effectively.