From Stiffness to Injury: Why Your Shoulder Hurts

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages. Whether it’s a dull ache, stiffness, or sharp pain, discomfort in the shoulder can interfere with daily activities like reaching, lifting, or even sleeping. The shoulder is a complex joint with bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments working together—so when something goes wrong, the pain can range from mild stiffness to severe injury.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain:

1. Muscle Strain or Overuse

Repetitive activities such as lifting, sports, or even long hours of typing can strain the shoulder muscles, causing soreness and stiffness.

2. Poor Posture

Slouching while sitting or standing puts extra stress on the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles, often leading to chronic pain over time.

3. Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Tears, inflammation, or tendonitis in this area are major causes of shoulder pain and weakness.

4. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

This condition leads to stiffness and limited movement in the shoulder joint, often developing gradually and lasting for months if untreated.

5. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the shoulder joint causes pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, especially with age.

6. Bursitis

The shoulder contains fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that reduce friction between bones and tissues. Inflammation of these sacs leads to painful swelling.

7. Shoulder Impingement

When tendons get pinched between the bones of the shoulder, it results in pain during overhead movements.

8. Injuries and Trauma

Falls, sports injuries, or accidents can cause dislocations, fractures, or ligament damage, leading to sudden, severe shoulder pain.

When to Seek Medical Help:

• Pain that persists for more than a few days despite rest.

• Inability to move the shoulder or lift your arm.

• Swelling, redness, or deformity.

• Sudden sharp pain after an injury.

Tips for Prevention and Relief:

• Maintain good posture while sitting and standing.

• Avoid carrying heavy bags on one shoulder.

• Warm up before exercise and stretch regularly.

• Use ergonomic chairs and workstations.

• Apply ice or heat packs for minor pain and rest the joint.

Conclusion:

Shoulder pain can stem from something as simple as poor posture or as serious as a torn tendon. Paying attention to the nature and duration of your pain can help you decide when to seek medical advice. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care, most shoulder problems can be managed effectively, helping you stay active and pain-free.

Consult an orthopedic specialist like Dr. Aditya Somayaji – Ortho to regain mobility and enjoy a pain-free lifestyle.

FAQs on Shoulder Pain:

Q1. When should I worry about shoulder pain?
If the pain lasts more than a few days, restricts movement, follows an injury, or comes with swelling, redness, or deformity, you should consult a doctor.

Q2. Can poor posture really cause shoulder pain?
Yes. Slouching or sitting in awkward positions puts stress on shoulder muscles and joints, often leading to chronic pain.

Q3. What is frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a condition where the shoulder becomes stiff, painful, and loses mobility over time, often lasting months if untreated.

Q4. How do I know if I have a rotator cuff injury?
Rotator cuff injuries typically cause pain when lifting your arm, weakness in the shoulder, or pain that worsens at night.

For More Information
Dr. Aditya Somayaji Orthopedic Kondapur, Hyderabad
Contact: +91 8328504271

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