Shoulder Pain
Definition:
Also called: Shoulder joint pain|Shoulder blade pain|Chronic shoulder pain
Shoulder pain may arise from the shoulder joint itself or from any of the many surrounding muscles, ligaments or tendons. Shoulder pain that comes from the joint usually worsens with activities or movement of your arm or shoulder.
Signs & Symptoms:
Shoulder pain varies in intensity from mild to severe. Depending on the cause for shoulder pain, additional symptoms may include the following:
Abnormal sensations (e.g., numbness, tingling, coolness)
Deformity
Discoloration (bruising)
Swelling
Weakness
In some cases, shoulder pain can be difficult to distinguish from neck pain and can spread to the arm and hand (radiate). This type of pain often is associated with pinched nerves in the neck (called cervical radiculopathy), but it also can come and go in some types of shoulder injuries (e.g., instability, dislocation/subluxation).
Cause:
Avascular necrosis
Brachial plexus injury
Broken arm
Broken collarbone
Bursitis
Cervical radiculopathy
Dislocated shoulder
Frozen shoulder
Hiatal hernia
Impingement
Osteoarthritis
Polymyalgia rheumatica
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rotator cuff injury
Separated shoulder
Septic arthritis
Sprains and strains
Tendinitis
Tendon rupture
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Torn cartilage
How To Cure:
- Cold Compress
Cold compresses are highly beneficial in alleviating shoulder pain. The cold temperature helps numb the area, which in turn reduces inflammation and pain.
Put some ice cubes in a plastic bag and wrap the bag in a thin towel.
Place it on the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes.
Repeat a few times daily for a few days.
You can also soak a towel in cold water and apply it on the shoulder.
Note: Do not place ice directly on the skin. It can cause frostbite.
- Hot Compress
Just like cold compresses, hot compresses also help treat shoulder pain, inflammation and swelling. It is best to use hot compresses after 48 hours of the injury occurring. Hot compresses also help relieve the pain of stressed out muscles.
Fill a hot water bag with hot water and apply it on the aching shoulder for 10 to 15 minutes while you lie down comfortably. Repeat a few times a day until you get complete relief.
Also, you can stand in the shower and run warm to slightly hot water on your shoulder for 5 to 10 minutes. Try to stand still for this time. You can enjoy a hot shower twice daily.
- Compression
Compression means putting even pressure on the painful area to help reduce the swelling. A compression wrap will give ample support to your shoulder and make you feel more comfortable.
You can compress the affected area with an elastic bandage or a warm wrap, which you can easily buy from the market. Wrap the affected area for a few days or until the pain and swelling are gone. Also, keep your shoulder elevated with the help of pillows to promote healing.
Note: Avoid wrapping it too tightly, which can lead to poor circulation and worsen the condition.
