Shoulder pain is a common condition that affects many people around the world. About 67% of the world population experience shoulder aches at some point in their lives. The shoulder joint is probably one of the most mobile joints in your body. It is made up of bones and muscles, tendons, and ligaments that hold them on the place. This construction allows the shoulder to move freely in various directions.
Unfortunately, this mobility decreases stability making your shoulder vulnerable to injuries. Everyday wear and tear may weaken shoulders and contribute to much pain. There are many reasons why your shoulder might hurt. Below outlined 4 most common causes and how to deal with them.
1. Frozen shoulder
Patients with frozen shoulder often experience severe stiffness and are unable to move their shoulders in the normal way. The levels of pain may vary from mild to severe. This condition occurs when the connective tissue that aligns your shoulder joint becomes inflamed. There are some factors that can make you more prone to frozen shoulders. Such conditions as diabetes, thyroid problems, or Parkinson's disease can increase your risk of this type of shoulder pain.
There are 3 different types of this condition that include freezing, frozen, and thawing. In the beginning, you may feel only pain but over time your range of motion will decrease. It is very important to receive qualified treatment. Frozen shoulder therapy may last up to 18 months.
2. Rotator cuff tendonitis
Rotator cuff tendonitis is probably the most common cause of shoulder pain. This condition may develop because of aging or overuse. It gets thinner and eventually wears down causing shoulder pain. Along with pain, you may also experience mild weakness while moving the joint. Over time, weakness may become more severe and occurs all the time.
To relieve rotator cuff tendonitis you need to avoid activities that provoke pain. Thus, you will allow the tendon to heal. To relieve the pain you may also try applying ice or heat compresses to the shoulder. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen can be helpful as well. Other good ways to improve your condition are manual therapy and strengthening exercises. This will promote muscle tone and stimulate weaker muscles.
3. Shoulder bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is unpleasant condition that along with pain may cause soreness, swelling, and inflammation. Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that provides a smooth surface for muscles and bones movements. This fluid reduces friction and maintains normal mobility.
When you overdo, your body responds by providing more fluid to the bursa. This may contribute to swelling and issues called shoulder bursitis.
The pain from bursitis usually occurs on one side of the shoulder and becomes worse when using your arm above the head. The treatment measures may include rest, ice compresses, and pain relievers. Physical therapy, stretching, or strengthening exercises may help increase range of motion.
4. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that develops because of the wear and tear of the shoulder joint. The condition destroys the cartilage that cushions the bones. It also helps them to slide smoothly against each other. This will result in shoulder pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. It also may become hard to lift your arms. It is also possible that your shoulder will make a grinding, clicking, or snapping sound while you move it.
To get relief it is recommended to rest, avoid activities that provoke pain, make hot or ice compresses, and take NSAIDs. Physical therapy exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles may help support the joint and increase the range of motion.
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