Shoulder pain or arm pain causes can be obvious in instances when you injure the arm or shoulder and immediately feel pain. You may have broken a bone or dislocated your shoulder. If you suddenly feel pain after lifting perhaps you strained tendons or ligaments by carrying too much weight for a long time, by lifting something that was very heavy.
Commonly the rotator cuff is injured by overreaching or overexerting your arm--as when playing sports when you're out of shape--or by keeping your arm in an awkward position, or even by sleeping on the shoulder. The resulting pain can range from an annoying ache to acute pain that makes it hard for you to use the injured arm.
Other shoulder pains can be felt, extending to further joints in your body, and if other symptoms - like swelling, numbness, tingling, fever, fatigue, and insomnia--accompany the pain. The causes of shoulder and arm pain include tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis, and gout. Pain can also result from a reaction to medications such as penicillin, anti-anxiety drugs, and oral contraceptives. Whiplash injuries, common in auto accidents, can also cause shoulder, arm or rotator cuff pain.
Symptoms of Shoulder/Arm Pain
It is important to seek a healthcare provider if you have any of these following symptoms:
- Pain in injured area.
- Tenderness.
- Swelling.
- Bruising.
- Decrease in range of motion.
Causes of Shoulder/Arm Pain
Some causes of shoulder/arm pain include, but are not limited to:
- Falling on the floor
- Torn muscle
- Torn ligament
- Torn tendon
- Sprain
- Strain
- Infection
- Overuse
- Repetitive trauma
Treatment of Shoulder/Arm Pain
Shoulder and arm pain can get progressively worse if untreated, it is important to treat it via:
- Ultrasound.
- Interferential current.
- Physiotherapy.
- Massage therapy .
- Chiropractic rehabilitation.
- Acupuncture.
- Have a nutritious diet.
- Rest.
- Medication (consult a doctor).
Prevention of Shoulder/Arm Pain
Some preventative measures include:
- Maintain or improve on range of motion.l
- Maintain or improve strength.
- Maintain or improve stability.
- Do not over exert arm when doing activities.
- Ensure proper warmup and cooldown.
- Maintain good posture.
- Avoid falling.
If you suffer from shoulder/arm pain and want a natural approach to health, we can help. Our Mississauga clinics have an approach to better health.
