Do you also have shoulder pain? (Shoulder Pain) Let's find out exactly what this is!

Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your shoulder when you wake up in the morning? Or is your shoulder so sore that you can't even lift it after playing cricket? This shoulder pain is a common problem for many people in our country. Since we use our shoulders for a lot of work throughout the day, there is a high chance of injury to this joint. So it is very important for us to know for sure whether this is just a soreness or a symptom of something serious.

What does shoulder pain feel like?

Shoulder pain can feel different depending on the cause. Sometimes it hurts just standing still, other times it only hurts when you move your arm. This pain can feel different.

Let's take a look at how our shoulders are formed?

Think about it, our shoulder is an amazing structure. That's why we can rotate our arm in any direction, lift it, and throw a ball. This shoulder joint is made up of three main bones:

• Upper arm (Humerus)
• Shoulder blade - (Scapula)
• Collarbone - (Clavicle)

These bones join together to form two joints. Also, around this joint is a group of muscles and tendons called the Rotator Cuff . This is what helps keep the shoulder stable and move. In addition, inside the joint is a fluid-filled sac called a bursa . This acts as a cushion, preventing the bones and tendons from rubbing against each other.

What are the main causes of shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can have many causes. It can be anything from a minor injury to a serious condition.

• Arthritis: Pain caused by wear and tear of the joints as we age.
• Bursitis: This is an inflammation of the bursa, the fluid sac I mentioned earlier. This is common among people who use their shoulders continuously.
• Dislocated Shoulder: Dislocation of the shoulder joint due to an accident.
• Frozen Shoulder: In this condition, the tissue around the shoulder joint thickens, causing the joint to become stiff and painful, making it impossible to even lift the arm.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation or damage to the tendons of the shoulder.
• Injuries to muscles or bones: A muscle strain, tear, or fracture can occur while playing sports or from a fall.

To find out exactly what's causing your pain, it's best to see a doctor . He or she can perform tests, such as an X-ray, if necessary, to determine the exact cause.

Could there be serious reasons behind this pain?

Yes, sometimes shoulder pain can be a symptom of another serious condition, so it's important to be aware of these things as well.

Is it a sign of a heart attack?

This is something that many people are afraid of. But remember, pain in the left shoulder alone is not a sign of a heart attack . However, if you have sudden, severe pain in the left shoulder along with one or more of the following symptoms , it could be an emergency.

• A tight pain in the middle of the chest
• Difficulty breathing (Dyspnea)
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Vomiting or nausea
• Pain spreading to the jaw, neck, or back

Could it be a sign of cancer?

This is very rare. Some types of cancer that develop in the upper part of the lungs (such as Pancoast tumors) can cause pain in the shoulder blade area. But don't be alarmed by this. If you have any doubts, see a doctor and get checked out.

What can be done to treat shoulder pain?

Treatment depends on the cause of the pain, but there are some general things you can do.

Treatments you can do at home

For minor pain, you can follow the RICE method at home.

• R - Rest: Rest the painful arm. Avoid lifting heavy objects or activities that strain the arm for a few days.
• I - Ice: Apply an ice pack to the painful and swollen area for 15-20 minutes several times a day. Never apply heat if there is swelling , as it can increase swelling.
• C - Compression: You can apply something like an elastic bandage around the shoulder to reduce swelling.
• E - Elevation: If possible, keep the painful arm slightly above the level of the heart while sleeping with a pillow.

Additionally, you can ask your doctor to reduce pain and swelling and take painkillers (e.g. Paracetamol) or anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) only as prescribed .

How do you sleep with pain?

It can be hard to sleep when your shoulder hurts. Try these things:

• Instead of sleeping on the side that hurts, sleep on your back .
• Place a pillow or rolled blanket under the painful arm to provide support.

When should I see a doctor?

Be sure to see a doctor in the following cases:

• If you have severe pain and swelling in your shoulder.
• If the pain does not subside within a few days.
• If the pain feels like it 's getting worse day by day .
• If your hand movement is limited and you can't even do normal tasks .
• As I said before, if you have shoulder pain along with chest pain or difficulty breathing , go to the ETU immediately .

Shoulder pain, shoulder pain, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff, joint pain, medical advice