Shoulder pain can stem from various conditions. Common causes include tears in the tendons connected to the arm bone (leading to night pain and weakness), inflammation of tendons, inflammation of small sacs near joints, frozen shoulder (stiffness and limited motion) and degeneration of joint cartilage.

Untreated shoulder pain can lead to complications and worsening symptoms. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial to prevent these issues.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not consist of any medical advice.

What is it?

Shoulder pain refers to discomfort in or around the shoulder joint. It can stem from issues with the joint itself or the surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bursae. Pain originating from the joint often worsens with arm or shoulder movement.

Additionally, certain health conditions in the neck, chest, or stomach can cause referred shoulder pain.

What are some possible causes?

Shoulder pain can be quite bothersome and impact everyday activities. Let’s explore some of the common causes:

1. Tendonitis and Bursitis

Inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) or the fluid-filled sacs around the shoulder joint (bursitis) can cause pain. These conditions often result from overuse, repetitive motions, or injury.

2. Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff consists of four small muscles and tendons that help you lift and move your arms. Wear and tear can lead to rotator cuff tears, either partial or full. These tears can occur suddenly due to an event like falling on an outstretched arm or gradually from repeated motions (e.g., overhead activities).

Night pain is a hallmark of a rotator cuff tear, and lifting your arm overhead may also cause discomfort.

Initial treatment often involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, along with physical therapy.

3. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

4. Shoulder Instability

Dislocation or subluxation of the shoulder joint can cause pain and instability. Trauma or repetitive strain may contribute to this condition.

5. Fractures

A broken collarbone (clavicle) or upper arm bone (humerus) can cause intense shoulder pain.

6. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

This condition involves thickening and tightening of the shoulder capsule, limiting movement and causing pain.

7. Impingement Syndrome

The rotator cuff tendons can become pinched or compressed between the bones of the shoulder, resulting in pain during certain movements.

8. Torn Labrum

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket. Tears in the labrum can cause pain, especially during overhead activities.

9. Cervical Spine Issues

Problems in the neck (cervical spine) can refer pain to the shoulder area.

10. Referred Pain

Conditions such as heart disease or gallbladder issues can cause pain that radiates to the shoulder.

Remember that if you experience severe or persistent shoulder pain, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

What can I do for you?

In many cases I can help you to relieve, or even to cure your pain. In certain circumstances, however, I may need to refer you to a medical specialist. Together with you, I will do this in full independence. I have no affiliation with any medical specialist.

Your first consultation will consist of:

1. Intake

I will take the time to let you tell me about your complaints. Together we discuss any possible causes of your pain and I may ask you to undergo a first light examination.

After the intake, I will be able to tell you whether treatment is feasible or whether it would be more appropriate to visit a medical specialist.

If treatment is feasible, then I may suggest various alternatives to you, each with its own characteristics.

2. Familiarization with the proposed treatment

Before we start with the treatment, I will explain you in detail, what the treatment will consist of, and what physical responses you may expect during the treatment.

3. Treatment session

The treatment session will take approximately 45 minutes to one hour. During this session, I will ask continuous feedback from you, to ensure that you feel comfortable and to get the maximum benefit out of your treatment session.

4. Evaluation

The session will end with a brief evaluation, during which we discuss to which extent you experience immediate benefits, or any discomfort during the session.

I will advise you on next steps, which could one or more of the following:

Follow-up-sessions.
Personal lifestyle-advice, to supplement my treatment.
In certain cases, referral to a medical specialist may be advisable.

What can you do yourself?

Here are some ways to that may relieve your shoulder pain:

Avoid:
– Always carrying heavy bags on the same side of your shoulder.
– Forcing your hands to pick up items that are out of reach.
Physical Therapy: Learn proper movement techniques from a physical therapist.
Stay Active: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to pull your muscles back to their proper length. Perform it gradually.