Shoulder Pain: Why the Painful Spot Is Not Always the Whole Story

Shoulder pain can be frustrating because many different problems produce similar symptoms.

Many problems, similar symptoms

Pain lifting the arm might involve the rotator cuff, bursa, joint or surrounding muscles. Stiffness may develop with frozen shoulder or arthritis. Pain around the shoulder blade can sometimes relate more to the neck or upper back than the shoulder joint itself.

The shoulder is a complex region. Several tissues occupy a relatively small space, and symptoms overlap. That is why internet diagrams showing one painful spot and one diagnosis should be treated cautiously.

Keep moving, within reason

For many non-traumatic shoulder problems, keep the shoulder moving gently rather than completely immobilising it. Modify movements that repeatedly cause sharp pain and gradually rebuild comfortable movement and strength.

When to seek medical attention

After a significant accident, seek medical assessment if you cannot move the arm, the shoulder has changed shape or there is severe swelling. A hot red joint, fever, persistent numbness or significant new weakness also needs medical attention.

When to book an assessment

If the shoulder has not started improving after a couple of weeks, keeps waking you at night or is progressively restricting everyday tasks, an assessment can help establish the next step.

At Taylor Osteopathy we assess the shoulder in context, including the neck and upper back where appropriate.