Shoulder Pain



Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body and can be affected by a number of painful problems. Shoulder pain is usually only short-lived and will settle with simple treatments.

Why have I got shoulder pain?

Possible causes of shoulder pain include:

- Inflammation or injury to surrounding muscles and tendons

- Injury to the bones or structures

within the shoulder joint

- Referred pain from the neck

How can I control the pain that I am feeling?

There are things that you can do to help control the pain and keep the shoulder moving:

1. Heat or ice over the painful area can help to reduce pain, inflammation and muscle spasm. You should only use heat or ice if you have normal sensation over the painful area, and should follow manufacturer’s instructions if you use a special pack and protect your skin by wrapping the heat or ice pack in a towel (a damp towel with ice).

2. Simple painkillers or anti-inflammatories that you can buy over the counter may help. Ask your pharmacist for advice on what to take. You shouldn’t need to see a doctor unless you develop severe pain in both shoulders, or feel feverish or unwell.

3. Try to keep the shoulder gently moving within the limits of pain – the exercises that follow this information should help. You may find it helpful to use heat or ice before doing the exercises.

4. Posture – stay relaxed and supported in sitting; don’t keep the arm held tight in to your side. Ask your employer to assess your workspace if this aggravates your pain.

And finally:

Below are a few suggested exercises. They should be worked through at least once a day. Although there may be some discomfort during the exercises, they should not cause an increase in overall pain. If you have any queries regarding this information or the exercises or information mentioned, please contact:

Physiotherapy Department – Tel: 01342 414004 or qvh.therapy@

Standing leaning on a table and flexed forwards, letting the painful arm hang in a relaxed position.

Swing your arm gently in a circle, keeping it relaxed throughout.

Repeat for 1-2 minutes.

Sit or stand with hands clasped in front of you.

Lift your arms above your head, assisting the painful arm with the other.

Repeat 5-10 times within pain free range only.

Stand or sit.

Lift your arm to the side, assisting with the other hand.

Repeat 5-10 times within pain free range only.

Sit or stand. Draw your shoulder blades together gently. Hold for 5 seconds then relax.

Repeat 5-10 times.

Physiotherapy Department

Issue 2 - Ref: 0404

Approved by the Patient Information Group

Print January 2018 - Review December 2020

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