Pain below the shoulder on the left side. Terrible pain in the shoulder joint: causes, treatment, what to do, patient reviews. When the pain radiates to the right shoulder

Today we offer an article on the topic: “Pain in the left shoulder: why the shoulder hurts, what to do and how to treat the arm.” We tried to describe everything clearly and in detail. If you have any questions, ask at the end of the article.

The human body is unique. Each organ, joint and even cell performs specific functions. If something fails, pain occurs. With these symptoms, the body signals an illness. By causing discomfort, it protects the injured area of ​​the body from excessive damage. That is why these signs cannot be ignored. They should be treated very carefully. What pathologies can indicate pain in the shoulder joint of the left arm? Let's figure it out.

Contents [Show]

Causes of pathology

The shoulder is a fairly complex joint in the human body. It is endowed with maximum functionality. The presence of one or another pathology in it not only disrupts the functioning of the joint, but also leads to swelling, inflammation and destruction of the joint capsule, and sometimes violates the integrity of the tendons. The shoulder joint can work for a long time even in this case. But the time comes, and it fails. A person experiences severe pain in the shoulder joint.

The reasons for this pathology may lie in developing ailments:

1. Tendinitis. Or inflammation of the articular tendons. The reason for this pathology lies in intense stress. During heavy physical activity, the tendons interact very closely with the surface of the joint. As a result, the person experiences irritation and pain.
2. Biceps tendonitis. The pathology manifests itself in the flexor muscle, which is localized in the upper region of the shoulder. With this disease, the patient experiences constant pain. When you feel the damaged area or any movement, the sensations intensify. If the ligaments of the shoulder joint are completely torn, a spherical swelling is visually noticeable.
3. Bursitis. This disease often accompanies tendonitis. Pathology also occurs after prolonged overexertion. But bursitis leads to swelling of the joint.
4. Salt deposits. As a result of this pathology, the ligaments of the joint become rigid. Often, salt deposits are localized under the scapula and collarbone. It is observed in people over 30 years of age. Painful discomfort appears suddenly. In its manifestation, it is quite strong. Any position of the hand does not lead to its reduction. It becomes difficult for a person to move a limb even 30 centimeters away from the body.
5. Violation of joint formation at the genetic level.
6. Joint injury. Young people, especially athletes, sometimes experience a dislocation that causes pain in the shoulder joint. The causes of pathology in elderly people are usually associated with degenerative processes.
7. Neoplasms.
8. Oversprain of the shoulder ligaments. The phenomenon often occurs in bodybuilders. With pathology, the joint becomes unstable. Most exercises cause difficulties for the athlete. Sometimes even a tear of the cartilaginous ring is diagnosed.
9. Humeroscapular periarthrosis. Pain in the shoulder joint of the left or right arm is the main symptom of the disease. Over time, the discomfort increases. And it leads to the patient not being able to sleep at night. The nature of the pain is quite diverse - from a dull manifestation to a strong burning sensation.
10. Tendon rupture.
11. Hernia, protrusion of discs of the cervical spine.
12. Neurogenic pathology. A phenomenon in which the sensitivity of the upper limbs and neck is impaired.
13. Arthritis, arthrosis.
14. Ailments of internal organs (heart, liver, lungs and others).

Serious pathologies of internal organs

Very often, pain in the shoulder joint of the left arm is perceived as a manifestation of osteochondrosis. However, sometimes such discomfort signals various pathologies of internal organs:

1. Angina pectoris. When the disease occurs, the pain radiates to the shoulder, neck, and arm. Typical symptoms of the classic picture are squeezing, pressing pain in the sternum, shortness of breath after physical activity. But sometimes the disease progresses differently. The patient feels only pain in the shoulder joint of the left arm and in the neck. In this case, discomfort may not be felt in the hand, and there is no tingling in the heart. Only an ECG will detect ischemia.
2. Myocardial infarction. Classic symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and unbearable burning pain in the sternum, unfortunately, do not always occur. Very often, pathology is signaled by a burning sensation in the shoulders and neck. As a rule, it is the left shoulder joint that worries. The disease is accompanied by patient anxiety, difficulty breathing, and perspiration on the forehead.

Joint fracture

This phenomenon is a fairly common injury. A fracture of the shoulder joint can affect any part:

• head of the bone;
• shoulder body;
• condylar region.

Frequent sources of pathology are: falling on the hand, strong blows or sports injuries. Quite characteristic symptoms indicate a fracture of the shoulder joint:

• painful discomfort in the area of ​​injury;
• bruising, swelling;
• shoulder deformation, sometimes shortening of the arm may be observed;
• possible loss of sensitivity in the hand and fingers;
• limitation of limb mobility;
• When you feel the damaged area, you sometimes hear a crunching sound.

Treatment of pathology

With these symptoms, it is unlikely that anyone will self-medicate. But it is still worth remembering that such pathologies are treated by a doctor. The patient will be prescribed painkillers, anti-inflammatory and calcium-containing medications.

For mild fractures that are not accompanied by displacement, a plaster cast may be prescribed. Sometimes it is enough to apply a splint or bandage to the shoulder joint. The duration of wearing varies depending on the pathology. As a rule, it ranges from one month to one and a half.

In case of serious injuries, the patient may need surgical intervention with fixing screws, special plates, knitting needles, or rods.

After healing of the fracture, the patient is prescribed physical therapy and physiotherapeutic procedures to restore the functioning of the limb.

Crick

The shoulder joint consists of the scapula, collarbone and humerus bone. Its integrity is maintained thanks to the muscles and joint capsule, as well as tendons and ligaments. Sprain of the shoulder joint leads to a whole range of pathological changes.

The patient may experience varying degrees of damage:

1. Shoulder joint rupture. With this pathology, the ligaments are completely torn, all fibers are damaged.
2. Sprain. With this phenomenon, partial damage to the fibers is observed.

The following symptoms may indicate this pathology:

• the occurrence of pain;
• discomfort is felt even in a calm position;
• feeling of weakness in the shoulder;
• joint mobility is limited - it is impossible to lift and move the limb to the side;
• the joint swells and may increase in size;
• presence of bruising and bruising;
• shoulder deformity;
• when moving, you can hear crackling and crunching sounds;
• tingling, numbness in the joint.

Treatment methods

Typically these include:

1. Cold compress. This procedure is acceptable on the first day. However, you should know that exposure to cold should not last more than 20 minutes.
2. Fixation of the joint. It is recommended to limit the load on the joint as much as possible. This will reduce pain and inflammation. In addition, the doctor may recommend a special brace for the shoulder joint or an orthopedic splint. The device ensures fixation of the joint in the desired position. Typically, the bandage is worn for several weeks.
3. Relief from pain. To eliminate discomfort, the doctor will recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are used for injuries of the musculoskeletal system. The medications Ibuprofen, Ketorolac, and Naproxen are often prescribed.
4. External means. For severe pain, it is recommended to use ointment. Pain in the shoulder joint is significantly reduced after exposure to drugs that have analgesic properties. The most effective ointments or creams are: Diclofenac, Indomethacin, Ibuprofen, Voltaren. The product must be applied in a thin layer 2-3 times a day to the damaged area.

The question of surgical intervention is raised only if drug treatment is ineffective. Sometimes surgeries are performed on athletes. This intervention allows you to completely restore shoulder mobility and muscle strength.

Pain due to osteochondrosis

This pathology occurs in people who remain in one position for a long time. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine causes disruption of the functioning of the autonomic nervous system and blood circulation. Often the discomfort is localized in the neck. However, pain is often felt in the muscles of the shoulder joint.

These symptoms are caused by bone growths that appear on the lateral surfaces of the vertebrae. They, injuring the nerve endings, cause pain in the patient.

Treatment of pathology

It is very important to contact a specialist in a timely manner. Since treatment is quite a complex task, an integrated approach is required:

1. Drug treatment. Initially, patients are prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Indomethacin, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen. If the pain lasts long enough, additional painkillers may be recommended: Pentalgin, Tramadol. Antidepressants can also be prescribed in combination: Fluoxetine, Amitriptyline. In addition, chondroprotectors are prescribed to patients: Teraflex, Chondroxide, Structum.
2. Physical education classes. Gymnastics is a mandatory component of treatment. Exercises help restore damaged discs, significantly improve cervical mobility, and strengthen muscle tissue.
3. Rehabilitation measures. After pain relief, patients are prescribed a variety of procedures: magnetic therapy, massage, laser therapy, mud therapy, electrophoresis, traction, swimming in the pool.

Types of arthritis

Often this pathology provokes pain. In the shoulder area, 3 forms of pathology can be diagnosed:

1. Osteoarthritis. This disease develops as a result of degenerative age-related changes in tissues. Cartilage does not protect the articular surface from friction. This pathology is typical for older people.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis. The disease is systemic. The inflammatory process covers the synovial membrane of the joint. People of any age are susceptible to pathology.
3. Post-traumatic arthritis. The disease develops against the background of injuries - displacement, cracks or rupture of muscles. Refers to types of osteoarthritis.

Shoulder pain is the first and main sign of the development of arthritis. It increases during movement. Changes in weather also affect the patient's well-being. The patient feels a decrease in the amplitude of hand mobility. Sometimes a characteristic clicking sound is heard while driving. In the later stages, the joint hurts with such intensity that the person cannot sleep at night.

Methods of combating pathology

How to treat shoulder joint with arthritis? Initially, doctors use physiotherapeutic procedures, accompanied by medication, and physical exercise. The therapy complex includes:

• warming compresses;
• the use of special additives such as Chondroitin;
• use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• set of exercises.

If such therapy is ineffective, surgeons resort to surgery. In this case, either a complete replacement of the damaged joint with a prosthesis or a partial replacement is considered.

Development of arthrosis

This is a chronic illness. With arthrosis of the shoulder joint, the patient's condition slowly worsens. Degradation of articular cartilage and nearby tissues occurs. The surface of the joint loses its smoothness. In places it is covered with osteophytes or salt thorns.

The development of arthrosis is slow. The first symptom indicating the development of the disease is pain in the shoulder. Periodically, the discomfort subsides. Physical labor leads to an exacerbation of pathology. The joint swells. The surrounding tissues turn red and become hot. Sometimes a crunching sound is heard while driving.

Treatment methods

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. As a rule, a mild remedy such as Paracetamol is initially prescribed. If a favorable effect cannot be achieved, stronger medications are recommended to the patient: Naproxen, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Indomethacin, Nimesulide. These medications help relieve pain.
2. Intra-articular block. In case of severe disease, special drugs are injected into the joint cavity. Hormonal medications such as Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone, and Kenalog are often used. They provide a good anti-inflammatory effect.
3. Chondroprotectors. Help restore joint tissue. The most preferred medications are: “Teraflex”, “Arthra”, “Arthro-Active”.

Causes of pain

The shoulder joint is one of the most complex in the entire body. Nature has endowed it with maximum functionality. However, improper use disrupts its functioning, leading to inflammation, swelling, destruction of the joint capsule and even disruption of the integrity of the tendons. Like any other mechanism, the shoulder joint works even if used incorrectly for some time, after which it “breaks” - the person experiences

shoulder pain, joint mobility decreases.

How does pain develop? The source of pain in the upper shoulder may be a neck disease. Such pain covers the entire upper limb to the fingers. The pain worsens when moving the head, often combined with partial loss of sensitivity. In such cases, during diagnosis, hernias of the cervical or thoracic spine are often detected. The properties of the affected discs deteriorate, the spaces between them are shortened, the nerve endings are pinched, and the person feels pain. At the same time, tissue swelling develops at the site where the nerve is compressed, they contract more intensely and hurt even more.

Capsulitis – a fairly uncommon occurrence. With this disease, the patient experiences pain in the shoulder, difficulty moving the arm behind the back, lifting it up. Symptoms increase slowly.

Cuff dysfunction happens after uncharacteristic hand work, for example, finishing work on the ceiling. The patient does not feel pain immediately, but a day later when trying to raise his arm.

Tendobursitis is a disease in which the joint capsule becomes inflamed. In this disease, the muscle tendons become calcified. The pain is acute, hand movements are significantly difficult, the patient complains of sharp pain in the entire limb from the neck to the fingertips.

Diseases that cause shoulder pain:1. Inflammation of the tendons of the joint - tendonitis . The reason for this is excessively intense stress on the joint. During physical work, such as sawing wood, the tendons interact tightly with the surface of the joint, causing pain and irritation.

2. Biceps tendinitis

- This is a flexor muscle located on the upper part of the shoulder. With this disease, the shoulder constantly hurts, and the pain intensifies when palpating the muscle and when moving the limb. If the muscle tendon is completely torn, you may notice a ball-shaped swelling.

3. Bursitis

- This is a frequent companion to tendinitis, which also appears with prolonged overexertion. But when

the joint swells.

4. Salt deposits

This phenomenon occurs when you raise your hand up. When salts are deposited, the ligaments become rigid. Most often, salts are deposited under the collarbone and shoulder blade. Such disorders are called “collision syndrome.” They are found in people over 30 years of age. The pain appears suddenly, it is quite strong and does not go away with any position of the hand. It is difficult to move your hand away from your body even 30 centimeters. But in a number of cases, salt deposition does not manifest itself in any way and is revealed only when

x-ray

5. Genetic disorder of joint formation

6. Joint injury

For example, young people or athletes often experience a recurrent form

shoulder In people of mature and old age

These tissues are usually the result of age-related degenerative processes.

7. Neoplasm

8. Shoulder ligament hyperextension

This phenomenon is typical for bodybuilders. When overstretched, the joint becomes unstable, so the athlete cannot do many exercises. The cartilage ring may also tear.

9. The pain radiates

for diseases of internal organs

liver, heart, pneumonia, radiculitis, neoplasms in the chest).

10. Humeroscapular periarthrosis

Shoulder pain is the main symptom of this disease. Over time, the pain intensifies so much that the patient cannot sleep at night. It can be of a very diverse nature, from dull to burning.

11. Tendon rupture

12. Neurogenic pathology

In which the sensitivity of the neck and upper limbs is impaired.

13. Herniation or protrusion of discs of the cervical spine

14. Arthritis

Arthrosis of the joint.

Based on the direction in which movement is stiff, the doctor can determine which part of the joint is affected:

• If it hurts when you move your arm to the side and forward, then the supraspinal tendon is affected,
• If it hurts when turning the arm along its axis to the outside with the elbow fixed at the side, then the infraspinal tendon is affected,
• If in the same position it hurts when turning the arm to the inside, the subscapularis tendon is affected,
• If it hurts in the biceps area when you move your lower arm inward, it may be a biceps injury.

In the arm and shoulder - a symptom of glenohumeral periarthritis The disease is an inflammation of the capsule and tendons of the shoulder joint. In this case, both the cartilage and the joint itself remain intact. Its main symptoms are pain in the shoulder. Periarthritis and osteochondrosis account for 80% of all diseases that cause shoulder pain. This is a very common disease that affects both sexes equally often. Typically, signs of the disease appear after a shoulder injury or overload with unusual activities. The disease is insidious in that from the moment of its occurrence until the first symptoms of illness appear, it can take from three to seven days.

In some cases, the cause of periarthritis is diseases of the internal organs, for example, the left side may be affected due to myocardial infarction. The primary disease impairs blood circulation in the joint area; the tendon fibers, which lack nourishment, become fragile and crack, swell, and inflammation develops.

The right side is affected in liver diseases.

A fairly common occurrence is periarthritis in women who have had their mammary gland removed, because during the intervention, blood circulation is disrupted not only in the breast, but also in the tissues adjacent to it. In addition, blood vessels or nerves may be damaged during the intervention.

The pain can be either mild and appear only with certain movements, or very acute; in addition, the patient cannot place his arm behind his back or move against resistance. Depending on the severity of the disease, it can be cured in a month or almost impossible to cure if we are talking about a chronic process. In the chronic form of the disease, the shoulder is literally made of stone. But such a disease sometimes goes away on its own after a few years.

In the neck and shoulder Pain in the shoulder and neck is often combined with weakness, discoloration of the skin ( if blood circulation is impaired), swelling and change in shape. The causes of this pain can be either minor or very dangerous. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor.

• Incorrect posture. This is the most common cause of pain in both the neck and shoulder. If the spine is not in the correct position, and the shoulders are hunched, ligaments and muscles act under conditions of increased stress,
• Rupture of muscles, tendons or ligaments,
• Degenerative processes in the spine lead to disruption of innervation,
• Spondylosis of the neck,
• Malignant or benign neoplasm,
• Stress,
• Uncomfortable sleeping position
• Muscle overload.

In the shoulder muscles - this is myalgiaSigns of myalgia: dull, aching pain in the muscles, sometimes sharp pain, decreased range of motion.

Causes of myalgia: uncharacteristic or very strong physical activity, hypothermia, stretching or tearing of fibers, viral infection.

you should give the muscle a rest for a couple of days, rub in a painkiller and

anti-inflammatory

local remedy (

ointment or cream). If the pain is caused only by overuse of the muscle, but it is intact, you can slowly stretch it, but very carefully.

If the cause of myalgia is a viral disease, the pain will go away immediately after recovery. If pain in the shoulder muscles is the result of a serious injury, you will most likely need the help of a specialist.

If after five days the pain does not go away, you should definitely visit a doctor.

More severe injuries must be ruled out. You may need to undergo treatment

muscle relaxants

There is arthrosis in the shoulder joint Arthrosis of the shoulder joint is a chronic disease. The patient's condition is slowly deteriorating. With arthrosis, degradation of the cartilage of the joint, as well as nearby tissues, occurs. The joint surfaces lose their smoothness and are sometimes covered with osteophytes ( salt spikes). These processes proceed very slowly. But shoulder pain is the first sign of the development of arthrosis. At times the pain eases, but after physical work it worsens, and the range of motion decreases. All tissues of the joint become inflamed, then the joint swells, the tissues surrounding it turn red and become hot.

Not far from the glenohumeral joint is the nerve plexus of the shoulder, which suffers from prolonged inflammation. If osteophytes have already formed on the joint, a crunching sound is sometimes heard when moving, and movements are painful and difficult. Despite the slow progression, the patient’s condition is gradually deteriorating, and the arm’s movements are getting worse. If the disease continues for many years, a persistent deterioration in the range of motion develops ( contracture).

Arthritis in the shoulder joint Three forms of arthritis can develop in the shoulder joint:
1. Osteoarthritis

– this disease develops during degenerative age-related processes in tissues, when articular cartilage ceases to protect the surfaces of the joint from friction against each other. This disease is more typical for people over fifty years of age.

2. Rheumatoid arthritis

– the disease is systemic, inflammation covers the synovial membrane of the joint, can occur in people of any age, and is always symmetrical.

3. Post-traumatic arthritis

– one of the types of osteoarthritis that develops after injury (

dislocation, fracture of a joint or muscle tear).

Shoulder pain is the most obvious and first sign of arthritis; it increases with movement and becomes stronger over time. The condition worsens when the weather changes. In addition, the amplitude of hand movement decreases; the patient cannot comb his hair or remove a book from the top shelves. Sometimes the patient hears a clicking sound when moving his hand.

In later stages of the disease, the joint also hurts at night, making it difficult to sleep.

The disease is diagnosed using x-rays. Treatment can be carried out using both conservative methods (

medicines, therapeutic exercises, warming up), and operational.

In the chest and shoulder - signs of pneumonia or pleurisy The pleura is a membrane of two layers that envelops the lungs and chest cavity from the inside. Its inflammation is not a very rare disease. Symptoms of pleurisy include acute pain in the chest, radiating to the shoulder and neck. The pain intensifies during coughing or deep breathing, since at this time the membranes of the pleura move relative to each other.

The breathing of such patients is rapid and shallow. Representatives of the weaker sex are more likely to suffer from pleurisy. Sometimes the pain even radiates to the abdominal area.

In some cases, pleurisy is combined with pneumonia, in which case the pain in the chest is aching and dull.

For osteochondrosis Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a very common disease that affects both sexes equally. More often, osteochondrosis develops in people who remain in the same position for a long time and move their heads little ( office workers), as well as making the same head movements.

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the functioning of the autonomic nervous system and blood circulation are disrupted, and pain occurs. Most often the neck hurts, but often the pain radiates to the shoulder. The pain is provoked by bone growths that appear on the lateral surfaces of the cervical vertebrae. These growths injure the nerve endings and cause pain. The more severely the spine is affected, the more intense the pain. Based on which areas of the neck or shoulder hurt, the doctor can determine which vertebrae are affected by the disease.

Thus, pain in the shoulder girdle indicates damage to the third and fourth cervical vertebrae.

The shoulder, girdle and neck hurt if the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae are affected. The shoulder may become numb on the outside.

If the disease develops between the fifth and sixth vertebrae, the shoulder and forearm hurt, the pain radiates to the 1st and 2nd fingers of the upper limb. The sensitivity of the fingers may be impaired.

The back of the arm hurts if the pathology is located between the sixth and seventh vertebrae.

If a hernia has formed on the discs, the pain is very intense and occurs in attacks. They intensify during movement.

The diagnosis is made by examining and interviewing the patient. To clarify it, an x-ray is performed,

It is impossible to completely recover from osteochondrosis.

Treatment If shoulder pain is caused by a slight sprain or awkward position, the following measures can help relieve it:

1. Sleep on a hard but comfortable surface.

2. Try to move your sore arm less.

3. In the first hours of pain, apply ice to the shoulder; from the second day you can apply warm compresses and rubbing.

4. Massage the sore area using heated oil in a circular motion.

5. Accept

painkiller

product based on

paracetamol

ibuprofen

6. If the neck is affected, a corset will help to immobilize it.

7. The hand should not be completely immobilized, as this can lead to the development of contractures.

8. Do physical therapy. It's best to talk to your doctor about exercise. You should spend no more than 20 minutes on exercise so as not to overwork the sore joint. In addition, they can help

acupuncture

9. To prevent hand movements from causing severe pain, you should choose the most comfortable positions, and the easiest way to do this is in a bathtub filled with water.

Exercises1. Tilt your head towards your right shoulder and hold the position for 15 seconds. Slowly raise your head straight and then tilt it towards your left shoulder.

2. Slowly turn your head to the right and hold the position for 5 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

3. Raise your shoulders, lower them, move them forward, move them back. Lower your head as low as possible, rest your chin on your chest, throw your head back.

4. Circular movements of the shoulders back and forth. Repeat in each direction at least 10 times.

Ointments Depending on the cause of shoulder pain, ointments can be used to improve blood circulation, relieve pain, inflammation, relieve swelling, and accelerate tissue recovery.

Most ointments have either a warming or cooling effect, they relieve inflammation and pain. These remedies are good if shoulder pain is the result of a minor injury.

Warming creams include: red pepper extract, methyl salicylate. These medications should not be applied immediately after a bruise. After all, immediately after an injury, the affected area needs to be cooled.

A few days after the injury, a warming cream can be applied, as well as for pain caused by osteochondrosis, myositis, bursitis, chronic arthritis or arthrosis.

Cooling medications can be applied to the injured shoulder immediately after a sprain or bruise. These drugs often contain essential oils, menthol, alcohol, painkillers, and blood thinners.

For bursitis and

tendovaginitis

anti-inflammatory drugs can be used, including

The composition of ointments used for pain in the shoulder and neck may include the following components:

• Methyl salicylate is an aspirin derivative. Relieves pain and inflammation,
• ketoprofen – relieves inflammation,
• ibuprofen – relieves pain and reduces inflammation,
• indomethacin – relieves inflammation and pain,
• diclofenac – used for rheumatic pain, relieves inflammation and relieves pain,
• bee venom – increases blood circulation, relieves pain, accelerates tissue regeneration,
• snake venom - the effect is similar to bee venom,
• camphor is a local irritating drug that relieves pain,
• menthol is a local irritant, distracts and thereby relieves pain,
• extract from mustard or pepper - improves blood circulation, increases tissue temperature, accelerates metabolic processes in them.

Folk remedies1. Compress with honey: lubricate the sore shoulder with honey and cover with a plastic bag. Leave overnight. Do it for five to ten days in a row.

2. Collect pine cones (

young) and pine needles, pour 200 ml of water at room temperature for ten minutes. Put on fire for 30 minutes, leave in a thermos to brew overnight. Use for taking pain-relieving baths. The duration of the procedure is from 20 minutes. One and a half liters of extract should be made for one bath.

3. Take a few copper coins, hold them over an open fire, then clean them a little with sandpaper. Find the most painful places and stick coins there using an adhesive plaster. Wear until the pain completely disappears.

ATTENTION! The information posted on our website is for reference or popular information and is provided to a wide range of readers for discussion. Prescription of medications should be carried out only by a qualified specialist, based on the medical history and diagnostic results.

Why do my shoulders hurt?

Our shoulder joint is vulnerable. It does not withstand abuse for long and responds with pain and dysfunction. The causes of pain in the shoulder joint are varied - heavy physical work, intense training in the gym, viral diseases. The shoulder may hurt due to a bruise, dislocation or fracture. Constant pain in the left or right shoulder is a reason to consult a doctor. This will prevent the development of the disease and prevent it from becoming chronic.

Shoulder joint pain is at risk for people who:

• slouch, do not watch their posture;
• move little during the day;
• perform heavy physical work;
• play sports professionally.

Types of Shoulder Pain

Shoulders most often begin to hurt due to overload. By strenuously playing sports and lifting weights, we provoke the appearance of pain. It can be a symptom of various diseases. Let's look at what diseases cause what type of shoulder pain.

Acute pain

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. The pain radiates to the arm and intensifies when turning the head. They get worse at night and become unbearable. In advanced cases, a person does not raise his hand.

Arthritis- inflammation of the joint. With arthritis, the right or left shoulder hurts a lot.

Arthrosis- a common cause of acute pain in the shoulder joint. More common in older people. It is painful for a person to raise his arm and perform another movement. Arthrosis can be caused by bruises, dislocations, fractures, and sprains.

Brachial neuritis. It is caused by inflammatory processes, tumors, and injuries. A person suddenly feels a sharp pain in the shoulder joint.

Tendobursitis- inflammation of the joint capsule. It is caused by deposits of calcium salts. Tenobursitis is characterized by acute pain throughout the entire arm from the neck to the fingertips. It is difficult for the patient to move his arm.

Rotator cuff lesion. The disease is caused by non-standard hand movements - for example, painting the ceiling. The day after painting work, a person may feel a sharp pain in the shoulder.

Shoulder capsulitis. The disease causes stiffness in the muscles of the shoulder girdle. A person has severe pain in his right or left shoulder, he cannot freely raise his arm up, move it to the side or put it behind his back.

Shoulder injuries- fractures, sprains, dislocations. Injuries must be treated, otherwise they will lead to permanent impairment of shoulder function and become chronic.

Chronic pain

Tendinitis. This is an inflammation of the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. Tendonitis is usually caused by overuse. During heavy physical work, the tendons rub against the surface of the joint. This causes chronic aching pain.

Biceps tendinitis. This is an inflammation of the tendon of the muscle on the inside of the shoulder. A person constantly has shoulder pain. The pain intensifies when moving the arm and palpating the muscle. When the biceps tendon ruptures, a balloon-shaped swelling appears.

Bursitis. Occurs when there is excessive load on the joint, after injuries to the periarticular bursa or tendons. The person experiences sharp pain, accompanied by swelling. It is impossible to sleep on the affected shoulder.

Pain when moving

Collision Syndrome. The disease causes the deposition of calcium salts. The pain occurs suddenly when raising the arm, it is intense and constant. The syndrome most often affects people aged 30-50 years.

Shoulder ligament hyperextension. This problem is familiar to bodybuilders. Sprains are caused by strenuous exercise. The pain intensifies when moving or palpating the muscle, and bruising appears.

It's a dull pain

Intervertebral hernia of the cervical spine. Causes intermittent aching pain in the shoulder joint and neck. It is accompanied by headaches and dizziness. As the disease progresses, the situation worsens. The pain becomes constant and unbearable.

Humeroscapular periarthritis. The pain can be burning, aching and shooting. It begins gradually, without obvious reasons. Often “wakes me up” at night, and my hands get cold. Movement causes pain in the joints. In advanced cases, the functions of the hand are impaired and the hands become numb.

Myalgia. The disease is caused by physical overload, hypothermia, and viral infections. A person feels aching, sometimes sharp pain in the muscles, and cannot move his arms at full strength.

Referred pain

A person has shoulder pain, but the problem is in another part of the body. Referred pain in the shoulder appears due to heart disease, liver pathology, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, pneumonia, cervical radiculitis and tumors of the chest organs. During a heart attack, a person’s arm hurts from the shoulder to the elbow. The patient feels heaviness and compression in the chest, dizziness occurs.

Pain in the shoulder joint is typical for different age categories of people. Often this symptom manifests itself in old age, but it can also occur in young people who lead an inactive lifestyle. Depending on the etiological factors, pain may have a different nature and severity of impact.

The shoulder joint hurts primarily because there are disturbances in its structure. To eliminate the discomfort and unpleasant sensation in the patient, the doctor needs to identify the causes of joint damage and influence the source of the symptom.

Etiology

Pain in the shoulder joint of the right or left arm has various causes. Often an unpleasant symptom manifests itself under the influence of such etiological factors:

• sedentary lifestyle;
• poor posture;
• joint injuries;
• age – more than 50 years;
• infectious diseases.

The causes of pain in the shoulder joint also lie in some pathologies:

• joint damage;
• cervical osteochondrosis;
• arthritis;
• arthrosis;
• tendinitis;
• bursitis;
• brachial nerve neuritis;
• neoplasms;
• calcification of ligaments.

Other pathologies of internal organs, which are characterized by the same symptom, can also provoke inflammatory effects in the shoulder joint. These include liver damage, myocardial infarction, pneumonia, angina, rheumatism, neuropathy, allergies, and cervical radiculitis.

If the patient has pain in the shoulder joints and noticeable redness of the skin, then perhaps an inflammatory process has begun in the shoulder. The following factors can provoke this action in the hand:

• hemorrhage due to trauma or hemophilia;
• reactive arthritis;
• post-streptococcal damage;
• metabolic disorders;
• autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms

Damage to the shoulder joint can occur for various reasons, so when diagnosing the disease, doctors must identify the clinical picture. When a bruise occurs, the patient experiences acute pain and a small hematoma. For this reason, there may be a temporary limitation in the movement of the arm with severe pain.

Pain and crunching in the shoulder joint occurs when a dislocation or fracture occurs due to a fall on the arm or a strong blow to it. Frequent, intense pain limits any movement of the entire arm. When you feel the damaged arm during a dislocation, a deformation of the joint area is revealed, and when a fracture occurs, a crunching sound is heard.

Minor fractures and dislocations can also occur in older patients from age-related bone loss and weakening of ligaments.

Shoulder dislocation

Depending on the pathology, joint pain can manifest itself in different symptoms. Doctors have identified clinical manifestations for all sorts of causes of this unpleasant symptom:

• with tendonitis - a sharp and nagging pain of an increasing nature, progressing at night. The inflammatory process in the tendon occurs when there is excessive stress on the shoulder and interferes with the free movement of the arm;
• with bursitis - the symptom persists for several days, or even weeks. The damaged area constantly aches, swells, and the shoulder joint hurts when raising the arm or moving the arm to the side;
• with capsulitis - aching pain appears, spreading to the arm and neck;
• with arthritis - increased body temperature on the inflamed part of the joint, swelling forms, it is painful and difficult for the patient to move the arm, the pain syndrome is periodic;
• with arthrosis - a crunch and pain appears in the shoulder joint when moving. At an advanced stage of hand injury, the syndrome becomes a permanent manifestation. When palpating the inflamed area, the pain radiates to the scapula and collarbone. The joint begins to deform;
• with cervical osteochondrosis – the pain becomes more intense when moving the head or neck;
• humeroscapular periarthritis - burning and pulling pain in the neck and arm when raising the arm or placing it behind the back, and the pain becomes more intense at night. Since this type of disease is a complication of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the limbs are affected. They may go numb and the muscles atrophy;
• with osteoporosis – the functionality of the shoulder joint weakens, the arm is inactive and weak. Pain increases with physical activity;
• with neuritis of the brachial nerve - pain in the right or left shoulder joint, and it manifests itself more intensely; discomfort appears.

For the clinical picture, it is also important to determine the location of pain. The type of disease that develops also depends on the location of the source of inflammation. The patient's pain can be diagnosed in the following places:

• when raising the arm forward or moving it to the side;
• when rotating the hand around an axis;
• front of the hand;
• when raising your arm vertically;
• when lifting a heavy load;
• with light movements - trying to comb, style hair, etc.;
• when turning the head or moving the neck;
• pain in the shoulder and neck at the same time;
• pain attacks from elbow to shoulder;
• the pain is localized in the shoulder and radiates to the back;
• located in the shoulder and collarbone.

Diagnostics

When identifying such a syndrome, in which the indicators become more intense, the patient should definitely seek the advice of a specialist. With such a problem, you can contact a traumatologist. When making a diagnosis, it is very important for the doctor to determine why the pain syndrome developed. Depending on the location and degree of pain, a physician can detect one or another pathology.

Pain in the shoulder joint of the left hand can occur not only when a tendon is sprained, inflammation of the periarticular bursa or salt deposits, but also indicate serious illnesses, for which the patient needs urgent medical attention.

Pain in the shoulder joint of the right hand is provoked by the same pathologies, as well as injuries, congenital anatomical anomalies, liver disease, radiculopathy, pneumonia, myositis. Increasing pain in the joint of the right hand manifests itself from glenohumeral periarthrosis and periarthritis. The following manifestations of pain and signs will indicate damage to the shoulder joint, and not muscle tissue:

• the pain is constant;
• worsens with movement and at rest;
• diffuse syndrome;
• movements are limited;
• increase in joint volume.

Depending on the clinical picture expressed by the patient, the doctor should refer the patient for a more accurate diagnosis of the condition of the joint. To establish an accurate diagnosis, the patient must be examined by a specialist. If you have pain in the shoulder joint, you can consult a neurologist, orthopedic traumatologist, cardiologist, rheumatologist, oncologist, or allergist. After their examination, the patient needs to do the following examinations:

Shoulder arthroscopy

• radiography;
• arthroscopy;
• tomography;
• rheumatic tests;
• biopsy – if oncological pathologies are suspected.

Treatment

In order for severe pain in the shoulder joint to subside, the patient needs to undergo a comprehensive examination. After diagnosing the inflamed area and establishing the exact ailment, the patient is prescribed therapy. To eliminate all factors in the development of the disease, the patient is prescribed treatment consisting of 4 components:

• etiotropic – treatment of the cause of inflammation;
• pathogenetic – to stop the development of the disease;
• symptomatic – to reduce the manifestation of symptoms;
• restorative – to quickly restore the functionality of the joint and improve the general condition of the patient.

When eliminating pain in the shoulder joints, the causes and treatment are interrelated. Therefore, to reduce the chances of developing complications and a quick recovery, the patient is prescribed full-fledged therapy from the four components listed above.

If the pain was caused by a hand injury, then the patient urgently needs to apply a cold compress to the inflamed area. Then the hemorrhage will stop a little, the swelling will decrease, and the discomfort will subside. Doctors eliminate pain in the joint of the right or left hand with traditional treatment:

• applying a cold compress;
• hand fixation;
• elimination of pain syndrome with drugs;
• external agents - ointments.

If the right or left shoulder joint begins to hurt from overexertion, then the patient will only need external influence using special means. Ointments and gels have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. Ointments consist of quickly absorbed components that do not leave a greasy film, do not close pores and act on deep tissues.

When using external agents when a joint hurts, it is worth remembering that it is not advisable to apply them to damaged areas of the skin and mucous membranes. Also, doctors do not advise applying the cream under tight bandages or combining it with various warming objects. If itching, burning or any other allergic reaction occurs, the ointment should be washed off immediately.

To take medications orally, doctors prescribe tablets to patients. They must be taken according to a strict prescription. The doctor prescribes medications to the patient, taking into account the condition at the time of damage to the joint, the presence of other pathologies and possible allergies. The following drugs have an anti-inflammatory effect:

• Diclofenac;
• Ibuprofen;
• Indomethacin;
• Meloxicam;
• Xefocam;
• Nimesulide.

For arthritis, arthrosis or bursitis, pain in the shoulder joint when you raise your arm can be eliminated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and chondroprotectors. If the disease has developed to a complicated stage and the drugs used do not give the desired effect, then the doctor prescribes the patient a minimal use of hormones and drugs with narcotic analgesics. These drugs are taken to reduce the risk of developing malignant tumors.

Shoulder arthroplasty

If the shoulder joint begins to deform, then traditional treatment will be ineffective. In this case, doctors resort to radical methods of therapy - surgical assistance. The patient undergoes joint replacement.

When periarthritis is detected, the patient is prescribed analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs that eliminate pain in the left shoulder joint. In case the disease is severely inflammatory, the patient needs to use glucocorticosteroid ointments and injections.

In addition to drug therapy, other methods can be used to eliminate the syndrome. Doctors advise patients:

• protective mode - immobilize the joint so that there are no unwanted movements and progression of pain;
• light physical activity - yoga or gymnastics. At the same time, the muscles relax and the pain in the shoulder joint when raising the arm gradually decreases;
• physiotherapeutic measures - electrophoresis, magnetotherapy, shock wave procedures, laser therapy, phonophoresis, UHF. However, before you begin such treatment on your own, you need to consult a doctor and find out whether the above-mentioned procedures and physical activity can be used for this disease;
• alternative means.

Pain in the shoulder joint can also be eliminated with traditional treatment. This method refers to alternative methods of therapy. You can use such remedies after consulting a doctor. Traditional medicine suggests eliminating pain using the following methods:

• rub the inflamed area with alcohol tincture at night;
• vinegar compresses;
• apply ointment on lard;
• apply cabbage leaf at night;
• drink tea from white willow bark.

Complications

If the treatment process is not started in time, the shoulder joint may hurt for quite a long time, and pain will occur when raising the arm, any movements and physical activity. If the patient initially had ordinary pain from an injury, then serious illnesses may soon develop:

• arthritis;
• arthrosis;
• bursitis;
• joint dysplasia;
• osteomyelitis;
• osteoporosis;
• polyarthritis.

If the pain syndrome is not eliminated in a timely manner, severe pathological processes may begin in the human body, leading to disruption of the musculoskeletal system. If treatment is incorrect or delayed, the patient may lose motor function and become disabled.

Prevention

So that a person does not wonder why the shoulder joint hurts and how to treat this pathology, it is worth devoting time to preventive measures. Doctors advise leading an active lifestyle, taking breaks during sports and promptly eliminating shoulder joint injuries.

Pain in the shoulders and neck is familiar to people of all ages leading an active or passive lifestyle. There are many reasons why shoulders and neck hurt. Some are minor, others require prompt medical intervention, so it is necessary to find out about the source in time and get rid of possible negative consequences.

The disease manifests itself on one side of the neck, gradually moving to the shoulder area. A person is deprived of the ability to painlessly turn his head or move his arm. Over time, severe pain in the neck and shoulder locks the joints, growing and intensifying. Increasing pain when moving, moving to the upper limb means that the disease is progressing.

Most often, problems begin with symptoms:

• The shoulder or neck becomes numb;
• Unpleasant, pulling sensations in the neck or upper limbs;
• Joints crack or click;
• The muscles are very tense;
• Pain limits movement;
• Muscles hurt and become inflamed;
• Feels like ;
• The cervical and shoulder area hurts, both on the left and on the right side;
• Pain when being in the cold;
• Sharp pain when turning or raising the head;
• Discomfort in the ligament area, pain is felt.

Causes

There are two options for why pain appears in the neck and shoulder area: changes in the anatomy of the structure and pain that penetrates further from diseases of various organs.

• In the first option, the area of ​​the cervical spine, shoulder joint, skeletal muscle tissue, nerve fibers, and blood vessels are affected by pain. The pathology affects the organs, involving the rest, showing a standard clinical pattern.
• The second option is heart problems and gallbladder diseases radiating to the arm, shoulder or neck.

Identifying the causes of pain in the cervical spine, extending to the shoulder, is entrusted to a specialist, not the patient. Some pathologies require immediate transfer to a hospital with surgeons and therapists; sometimes, resuscitation is required.

• Perhaps you need information:

Pathologies of the shoulders and neck

The area of ​​the cervical spine, including the canals of the spinal cord, the bones of the upper limb girdle, the shoulder joints, and a variety of muscle tissue is the collar zone. The main and largest muscle is the trapezius, whose branches extend throughout the area of ​​the neck and nearby organs. The area near the spine contains many blood vessels and cervical plexuses of nerve tissue.

The artery that delivers blood cells to the brain is located in a canal with notches of the transverse processes of the vertebrae of the neck, called the vertebral artery (left or right).

Muscular sections

Muscle pain in the neck area associated with the shoulder occurs from staying in one uncomfortable position for a long time. Neck and shoulder pain affects office workers, people behind the cash register, programmers, artists and scientists. Those who choose this type of activity lead a passive lifestyle, walk little, sit for many hours at an easel, computer, etc. If your shoulder hurts, radiates to your neck, or vice versa after sitting in one place for a long time, a simple warm-up and a walk will help, there is no talk of any serious treatment methods.

• Read also:

Intervertebral cartilage

Pain in the cervical spine appears due to osteochondrosis. This disease has to be treated not only by older people, but also by young people. The process is degenerative and develops in the structure of the connective tissue of the spine. Changes in the cartilage coating lead to displacement of the vertebrae relative to each other, which is called spondylolisthesis.

Pain in the cervical spine is the result of crumbling cartilage between the vertebrae, hernia or blockage of the vertebrae, and the proliferation of bone tissue that forms spines - osteophytes. Processes in which nerve roots are compressed, tissues become inflamed, and pain in the neck and shoulders appears are successfully treated.

Shoulder joint

Pain in the shoulder and neck is the result of arthritis of the shoulder joint or periarthritis - inflammation of the tissues around the joint without affecting the capsule. When the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, it can spread to the neck if the joint is affected. It is rare in rheumatoid arthritis, where the joints between the vertebrae are involved in the painful process. A tumor appears, the skin turns red, becomes hot, and severe limitation in movement appears.

• Be sure to read:

When there is pain in the neck, but there is no desire to turn to specialists, but want to do independent treatment, it is important to remember that the shoulder joints with inflamed rheumatoid arthritis in the severe form of the last stages are not curable, and the patient becomes unable to care for himself, acquiring disability.

The brachial plexuses of nerves take part in the effects of periarthritis, move to the cervical area and radiate to the back of the head. The subacute course of the disease is mild, aching pain is felt between the neck and shoulder.

Joint movements are limited, as in the case of arthritis, but the inflammation is not pronounced, and the pathology is treated well. Ultrasonic devices are used to determine the problem of the joint. In special cases, arthroscopy is performed. It allows for additional therapeutic actions, such as administering medications to get rid of inflammation in the joints.

• Perhaps you need information: ?

Spinal artery

When it is difficult to understand the cause of pain in the cervical spine, this indicates. It is accompanied by barely expressed pain, but there is a headache, noise in the ears, the quality of vision decreases, and fainting occurs.

• Interesting read:

Doctors confuse it with vegetative-vascular dystonia and prescribe long courses of treatment, but the state of health continues to rapidly deteriorate. Disturbances associated with cerebral circulation occur. To identify the cause, an MRI is performed to determine the exact cause and level of danger.

Diseases of internal organs

Having attributed the emerging problems to osteochondrosis, people begin to treat it on their own or neglect their own health without turning to doctors. The pathologies progress, and the pain, the cause of which is a disease of the internal organ, radiates to the shoulder or neck.

Angina pectoris manifests itself in the form of squeezing, pressing pain behind the chest in the area of ​​the heart. Shortness of breath that occurs during physical activity goes away at rest. Doctors are faced with cases where the patient felt pain in the left shoulder and neck due to angina pectoris and nothing else. It is not felt in the upper limb, there is no cardiac tingling, the ECG reveals ischemic changes. When the pain goes away when using nitroglycerin, the presence of the disease is confirmed.

Myocardial infarction

A dangerous pathology - myocardial infarction, manifests itself in a person with sudden difficulty breathing at complete rest, the area behind the chest is accompanied by an unbearable burning sensation. The patient describes a burning sensation in the neck and shoulder on the left side. Anxiety, forehead sweating, difficulty breathing are the accompanying pathology. If damage to the heart muscle is extensive, pain shock occurs and increases. Help must be timely and adequate so as not to aggravate the situation.

Biliary colic

Pain in the cervical region and right shoulder indicates biliary colic, which is inherent in people who experience all the hardships of cholelithiasis. When the gallbladder is inflamed, the phrenic nerve exhibits a reaction, this is called the phrenicus symptom.

If the menu and diet regimen are violated, smoked meats, fried foods or high-fat foods are consumed, the patient feels sick, vomits, the sclera and skin turn yellow, this is obstructive jaundice. If symptoms occur, hospital treatment and surgical assistance during the “cold period” are required. If biliary peritonitis is suspected, surgery is prescribed and performed on an emergency basis.

Lung tumor and Pancoast syndrome

Cancerous tumors in this area are rare, but we must not forget about it, because the main manifestation is pain in the shoulder near the neck. The initial stage of growth of a cancerous tumor is not noticeable, and it is not possible to detect it without the help of a specialist. After a while, growing and capturing the surrounding tissues, it reaches the brachial plexus, sympathetic nerve fibers located between the initial segment of the neck and ending with the cervical ganglia.

Symptoms occur in the form of a sunken eyeball - enophthalmos, constriction of the pupil - miosis, drooping eyelid - ptosis. Horner's syndrome is common when the sympathetic nervous tissues of the neck are affected. A person gets tired faster than before, loses weight before his eyes, and feels general weakness throughout the body. Curing cancer is difficult and will require a lot of time and effort, but success depends on the stage of tumor development. Doctors prescribe treatment in the form of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to help eliminate cancer cells.

Complications

When your neck hurts, it may seem that the cause is a pulled muscle or a cold nerve. Many people put off seeing a doctor until later, believing that “everything will go away on its own.” As practice shows, non-serious injuries often turn out to be hidden dangerous diseases that later manifest themselves in a severe form.

The neck area contains many vessels that supply the brain with blood, as well as nerve endings that are easily pinched and damaged, immobilizing a person. Pinching causes irreparable damage to the brain due to lack of nutrition.

An advanced form of osteochondrosis leads to pulsating pain, because the vessels are compressed and hypertension appears, the performance of blood vessels and the heart deteriorates, vision decreases, the person becomes deaf and is unable to coordinate his own movements of the limbs and the body as a whole.

The consequence of a compressed spinal artery leads to cerebral ischemia and spinal stroke, which is often encountered in medical practice. Radiculitis is another disease that is preceded by problems of the blood vessels and arteries of the spine. A hernia appears, and when the spinal cord is compressed, paralysis and even death occurs.

• Please read the information carefully:

Treatment methods

The choice of therapeutic therapy is influenced by the patient’s condition and the type of disease. The main task is to relieve inflammation and eliminate pain. To avoid incorrect diagnosis, deterioration of the condition, and not to trigger the disease, it is important to abandon self-medication and folk remedies.

Medicines

Conservative methods using drugs are used:

• Chondroprotectors improve blood circulation (“Artracin”, “Teraflex”);
• Drugs that eliminate the inflammatory process and reduce swelling (Indemethacin, Methoxicam, Diclofenac);
• Analgesics that reduce pain (“Ketorol”, “Analgin”, “Barangin”);
• Antispasmodics that improve blood flow (“Mydocalm”, “Trental”);
• Ointment and gel against the inflammatory process (Diclogel, Voltaren, Nicoflex).

• We recommend reading:

Physiotherapy

They carry out procedures: they treat with mud, healing waters, do acupuncture, magnetotherapy, and use electrophoresis.

• Arthrosis and arthritis are treated with medications for inflammatory processes, and chondroprotectors are used. In advanced cases of the disease, analgesics and hormones are prescribed to relieve pain. Medicines are administered intravenously or intramuscularly. If there is no result, the shoulder joint is replaced.
• To relieve pain from a bruise, apply ice cubes wrapped in cloth, and if the pain is unbearable, use analgesics.
• Anti-inflammatory medications are used for periarthritis. Doctors prescribe topical ointments.
• Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is treated by doing massage, physical exercise and physiotherapeutic procedures. The chronic form requires repetition of courses.

The human body is a unique mechanism in which each organ and even cell performs certain functions. If a failure occurs in this harmonious system, the person experiences pain. It is needed for a person to understand that something has gone wrong in his body.

The resulting pain in the joints prevents them from heavy loads, since the patient simply cannot make unnecessary movements in the diseased joint.

These signs cannot be ignored, since advanced joint disease can lead to immobility in the injured limb. What to do if there is a sharp and severe pain in your left shoulder? What reasons can lead to this condition?

Causes of pain in the left shoulder

The shoulder is the most complex joint of the arm. The joint is endowed with maximum mobility. If inflammation occurs in the shoulder joint, the consequences can be very serious.

1. A person feels severe pain in the upper limb.
2. The joint turns red and swells.
3. The inflammatory process leads to the destruction of the joint capsule.
4. The joint becomes immobile.

Although the functionality of the joint may be maintained at first, over time it will still fail.

What are the reasons for sharp pain in the right or left shoulder? Most likely, one of the following pathologies develops in the joint.

• Shoulder tendonitis is inflammation of the joint tendons. This disease can be a consequence of intense loads, during which there is strong friction between the tendon and the surface of the joint.
• Biceps tendinitis occurs in the flexor muscle. The patient constantly experiences severe pain in the upper shoulder area. Pain in the joint increases with palpation and with any movement. If the shoulder ligaments are torn, a ball-shaped tumor may be noticeable on the shoulder.
• Bursitis often goes hand in hand with tendinitis. This disease can occur after prolonged overexertion and leads to swelling of the shoulder joint.
• Salt deposits are another pathology that can impair the functionality of the shoulder. This disease causes the muscles and ligaments of the shoulder to become stiff. Sometimes salt deposits are localized under the collarbone or under the scapula. Most often, salt deposits occur in women after 30 years of age.

Anatomical disorder of the joint structure, inherited. Tendon rupture.

Shoulder injuries that often occur in young people, especially professional athletes. Most often this is a dislocation. Pathologies in older people that develop as a result of degenerative processes in cartilage tissue. Neoplasms.

Protrusion, herniation of vertebral discs in the cervical area. Arthritis, arthrosis.

Oversprain of the shoulder ligaments. This phenomenon is often found among bodybuilders. With this injury, the joint loses stability, and exercises are difficult for the athlete. In some cases, a tear of the cartilaginous ring is diagnosed.

Neurogenic pathology. A condition in which the sensitivity of the neck and upper extremities is impaired.

Humeroscapular periarthrosis. The main symptom of the disease is pain in the shoulder joint of the right or left arm. As the disease progresses, shoulder discomfort increases, causing the patient to lose sleep.

The pain can be of a different nature, from dull nagging to burning.

Other Causes of Shoulder Pain

Often pain in the shoulder joint is perceived as symptoms of osteochondrosis. But such a condition may indicate all sorts of pathologies of internal organs and systems.

With angina, pain may radiate to the shoulder, arm, or neck. The characteristic symptoms of angina are the following:

1. pressing, squeezing pain in the chest;
2. shortness of breath even after minor exertion;
3. shoulder and neck pain.

Pain in the heart may not be felt, and ischemia is detected only on an ECG.

Classic symptoms of myocardial infarction:

• the appearance of unbearable burning pain in the chest;
• labored breathing;
• burning in the shoulders and neck, with discomfort more often observed on the left side;
• feeling of anxiety and restlessness;
• labored breathing;
• the appearance of perspiration on the forehead.

Since these diseases pose a serious threat to the patient's life, if the above symptoms appear, a person should immediately consult a doctor.

Shoulder fracture

This injury is quite common. A joint fracture can occur in any part of the joint and affect:

1. shoulder body;
2. head of the bone;
3. condylar region.

A similar injury can occur from a fall, a strong direct blow to the shoulder, or during sports training or competition.

The following symptoms are typical for a shoulder fracture:

• bruising, swelling;
• discomfort and pain at the site of injury;
• impaired sensitivity of the fingers;
• shoulder deformity;
• shortening of the arm may occur;
• the limb is limited in mobility;
• On palpation, crepitation is clearly heard in the joint.

What to do if it happened? It is unlikely that a patient who experiences such symptoms will self-medicate.

The pain during a fracture is so intense that a person will most likely consult a doctor. After the examination, the doctor will prescribe the patient anti-inflammatory, painkillers and potassium-containing drugs.

If the fracture is mild and not displaced, you can limit yourself to applying a plaster cast, bandage or splint to the shoulder joint. The duration of wearing the device is determined by the doctor, who takes into account the severity of the injury and the speed at which recovery occurs.

Typically, rehabilitation time is 1-1.5 months.

If the injury is serious, the victim may require surgery using fixation screws, rods, pins and special plates. When the bone heals, the patient is prescribed rehabilitation measures, which consist of physiotherapeutic procedures and therapeutic exercise.

What to do if a muscle strain occurs?

The shoulder joint includes the collarbone, scapula, and shoulder bones. All these parts are connected by tendons, muscles and a joint capsule. Stretching the ligamentous apparatus leads to various pathological changes in the joint, having different degrees.

1. Shoulder joint rupture. In this condition, the ligaments are completely torn and all muscle fibers are damaged.
2. characterized by partial damage to tendon and muscle tissue.

The symptoms of a sprain are as follows:

• there is a sharp pain in the shoulder;
• pain is felt even at rest;
• weakness and instability appear in the joint;
• there is limited mobility of the hand;
• the joint swells and increases in size;
• abduction and adduction becomes impossible;
• there are bruises and bruises;
• the shoulder is deformed;
• crepitation is heard when moving;
• tingling and numbness in the joint.

What to do if you have a sprain? If a doctor diagnoses a patient with a sprained arm, therapeutic measures will be as follows:

1. On the first day of injury, a cold compress should be applied to the affected area. However, such exposure should not exceed 20 minutes.
2. Immobilization of the joint - this measure is necessary to reduce the load on the diseased joint, which will reduce pain. For fixation, you need to purchase a special bandage or orthosis. The product guarantees fixation of the shoulder joint in the correct position.

Drug therapy consists of prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that will relieve inflammation and relieve pain. Most often, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Ketorolac are used for injuries of the musculoskeletal system. These drugs are taken orally.

However, for the treatment of joint pathologies, in particular sprains, doctors also prescribe external agents to their patients, presented in the form of ointments, creams and gels. Local application of liniments provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Such drugs include:

• Ibuprofen.
• Voltaren.
• Indomethacin.
• Diclofenac.

The medications are applied to the skin in a thin layer several times a day and rubbed in with gentle circular movements.

If conservative therapy does not produce results and the pain in the arm does not subside, the patient needs to undergo surgery. Athletes often have to resort to surgical intervention.

Sometimes it is only possible to restore movement in an injured shoulder using radical methods.

Other Causes of Shoulder Pain

Osteochondrosis is a disease well known to those people who are forced to spend a long time in one position. Typically, office workers, teachers and assembly line workers suffer from osteochondrosis.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine leads to disorders of the autonomic nervous system and blood circulation. Most often, pain appears in the neck, but it can radiate to the shoulder joint. Osteochondrosis is treated by a rheumatologist or neurologist.

The causes of osteochondrosis are bone growths (osteophytes) that appear on the lateral surfaces of the vertebral joints.

Treatment of osteochondrosis is quite long and requires an integrated approach. First of all, the doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory drugs to the patient:

1. Ibuprofen;
2. Diclofenac;
3. Indomethacin.

If the pain is too intense, the patient may need pain medication. For this purpose, the patient is prescribed Pentalgin, and in special cases, Tramadol. Complex therapy also includes antidepressants: Amitriptyline, Fluoxetine. Among the chondoprotectors, the ones that are most respected by doctors are: Structum, Chondroxide, Teraflex.

Physical education is a mandatory component of treatment. Gymnastics helps restore damaged discs and improves mobility of the cervical spine.

After the pain is eliminated, patients are prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures, which include.

Shoulder pain can be acute or chronic. Acute pain usually occurs when tissue is injured in this area ( fracture, dislocation). The presence of chronic pain is due to the slow progression of various inflammatory diseases of the shoulder area ( arthritis). Shoulder pain that is not diagnosed in time can lead to temporary or permanent disability and a deterioration in quality of life. In some cases, it does not interfere with normal household activities.

Anatomy of the shoulder area

The components of the shoulder area are the following anatomical structures:

• shoulder skin;
• subcutaneous fat tissue of the shoulder;
• shoulder fascia ( connective tissue membranes);
• shoulder muscles;
• brachial bone;
• shoulder joint;
• vessels and nerves of the shoulder.

Shoulder skin

Subcutaneous fat tissue of the shoulder

The following vessels and nerves are located in the subcutaneous tissue:

• lateral saphenous vein of the arm;
• medial saphenous vein of the arm;
• medial cutaneous nerve of the shoulder;
• superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the shoulder;
• posterior cutaneous nerve of the shoulder.

Fascia of the shoulder

Shoulder muscles

The anterior group includes the following shoulder muscles:

• Coracobrachialis muscle. Its function is to flex the shoulder at the shoulder joint, bring the shoulder toward the body, and rotate the shoulder outward.
• Biceps brachii has two heads - short and long. The function of this muscle is supination ( turn outward), flexion of the shoulder at the shoulder joint and the forearm at the elbow joint.
• Brachialis muscle participates in flexion of the forearm at the elbow joint.

The posterior group includes the following muscles of the shoulder:

• Triceps brachii has three heads - medial, lateral and long. Its function is to extend and adduct the shoulder to the body, and extend the forearm at the elbow joint.
• Elbow muscle participates in extension of the forearm.

The muscles of the shoulder girdle include:

• deltoid;
• supraspinatus muscle;
• infraspinatus muscle;
• teres minor;
• teres major;
• subscapularis muscle.

Brachial bone

The humerus has the following main sections:

• head;
• body;
• anatomical neck;
• surgical neck;
• condyle;
• epicondyle.

Shoulder joint

The cavity of the shoulder joint is lined with a layer called synovium. It has a rich blood supply and innervation. The synovial membrane carries out protective, metabolic, synthetic ( formation of synovial fluid) and shock-absorbing functions.

The shoulder joint provides the following types of joint movements:

• flexion;
• extension;
• casting;
• abduction;
• turn outward and inward ( supination and pronation);
• Roundabout Circulation.

Vessels and nerves of the shoulder

Venous outflow from the shoulder area occurs through two brachial veins, which are located in close proximity to the brachial artery. The veins in the shoulder area carry blood to the axillary vein.

The innervation of the shoulder comes from the infraclavicular part of the brachial plexus and is represented by the following branches:

• the musculocutaneous nerve, which innervates the anterior group of shoulder muscles;
• radial nerve, which innervates the posterior muscle group of the shoulder.

What structures can become inflamed in the shoulder?

The structures whose inflammation most often causes shoulder pain are:

• Synovial membrane of the joint. Inflammation of the synovial membrane can occur with arthritis, as well as be an isolated pathological condition.
• Muscles. Muscle inflammation can be an independent disease ( myositis), and a secondary phenomenon as a consequence of injuries to the shoulder region.
• Ligaments of the shoulder joint. Ligaments can become inflamed due to their partial stretching or rupture under loads exceeding their strength.
• Shoulder joint. The shoulder joint can be inflamed due to various diseases ( arthritis, gout) or due to injury.
• Brachial vessels can be affected both together with other vessels in systemic vasculitis, and due to local causes ( injury).

Main causes of shoulder pain

The main causes of shoulder pain are:

• Shoulder dislocation, which occurs due to the large range of movements of the shoulder joint. When a dislocation occurs, the articular surfaces of the shoulder joint partially or completely cease to contact.
• Humerus fracture occurs 8 times more often than a dislocation, and is accompanied, in addition to pain in the shoulder, by significant damage to surrounding tissues.
• Inflammation of the shoulder joint (arthritis) can be caused by injury, infection, metabolic disorders or autoimmune processes.
• Inflammation of the synovium (synovitis) may be a separate disease or accompany other inflammatory diseases of the shoulder joint.
• Shoulder sprain usually occurs during trauma ( especially sports injuries) when the load on the ligaments is excessive.
• Muscle inflammation (myositis), is usually an autoimmune disease.
• Radicular pain arise due to compression of the spinal nerve roots in the area of ​​the C4 segment. Radicular pain is segmental in nature, that is, it is localized strictly along the location of the fibers of the affected nerve.
• Compression syndrome occurs against the background of compression of the brachial plexus. This condition occurs more often with tumors of the upper lobe of the lung, aneurysm of the axillary artery.
• Shoulder syndrome. This disease is quite rare. It usually affects people over 50 years of age.
• Vascular diseases, which include thrombosis, atherosclerosis, embolism of vessels supplying blood to the shoulder.

Diagnosis of the causes of shoulder pain

To diagnose the causes of pain in the shoulder area, the following research methods may be prescribed:

• physical diagnosis;
• immunological blood test;
• examination of synovial fluid;
• ECG ( electrocardiography);
• biopsy;
• electromyography;
• Ultrasound ( ultrasonography);
• X-ray examination;
• arthropneumography;
• radionuclide diagnostics.

When interviewing a patient, it is important to pay attention to the following points:

• pain characteristics;
• the time and conditions in which it appears;
• symptoms accompanying pain;
• presence of harmful occupational factors;
• history of trauma ( medical history).

It is also important to exclude heart pathologies, in which pain often radiates to the shoulder. To do this, the doctor performs palpation, percussion and auscultation. With diseases of some internal organs, pain can also spread to the shoulder area ( pain in the left shoulder with pancreatitis). If the diaphragm is irritated, pleurisy may cause pain to radiate to the shoulder. Because of this, a comprehensive approach must be taken to diagnosing shoulder pain so that diagnostic methods can fully cover the possible causes of pain.

General blood analysis
A general blood test does not provide results specific to shoulder pain, but its results can be used to judge the general condition of the body. The most likely changes in the general analysis are an increase in the level of leukocytes and ESR ( erythrocyte sedimentation rate) . The number of white blood cells increases when there is an infection in the body, which can also manifest itself as pain in the shoulder area ( for example, with infectious myositis). ESR is an indicator of the presence of an inflammatory process in the body and indicates the need to search for an inflammatory focus using more specific methods.

Blood chemistry
A biochemical blood test can detect pathological changes in indicators that are more specific for diagnosing shoulder pain.

Biochemical blood test indicators important for diagnosing shoulder pain include:

• Creatine phosphokinase. This enzyme is found in large quantities in muscle cells. An increase in the level of creatine phosphokinase in the blood is often observed with traumatic and inflammatory lesions of skeletal muscles.
• Aldolaza may be increased with progressive muscular dystrophy, myocardial infarction. The degree of increase in the level of this enzyme is directly proportional to the degree of tissue damage, that is, the stronger the damage, the higher the level of aldolase in the blood.
• Transaminases. ALT ( alanine aminotransferase) and AST ( aspartate aminotransferase) are found in large quantities in muscles. When muscle tissue is damaged, muscle cells release large amounts of ALT into the blood.
• Uric acid. Elevated levels of uric acid in the blood are called hyperuricemia and are seen in gouty arthritis.
• LDH ( lactate dehydrogenase) is an enzyme that is found in almost all cells of the body, but is most active in skeletal muscle cells. An increase in LDH activity in the blood is observed when muscle cells are damaged or destroyed.

Immunological blood test
An immunological blood test allows you to assess both the general state of immunity and determine specific markers of certain diseases. This method is of particular importance in the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases.

The following immunological blood test parameters are most often prescribed:

• Myositis-specific antibodies. Determination of the activity of these antibodies is necessary for the diagnosis of myositis.
• Rheumatoid factor are autoantibodies of the Ig M class that are synthesized by the body’s immune system. Autoantibodies, mistaking body tissues for foreign agents, damage them. Rheumatoid factor in most cases confirms the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Antistreptolysin-O are antibodies that are produced by the body to fight streptococcal infection, in which beta-hemolytic streptococci synthesize streptolysin-O. This indicator is important for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, which occurs as a complication of a previous streptococcal infection.

Synovial fluid analysis includes the following types of studies:

• Macroscopic analysis and study of biochemical characteristics. This includes determination of color, transparency, quantity, density, presence of sediment, turbidity.
• Microscopic analysis. Cytosis is determined ( content of cellular elements), native research ( not affected by dyes and fixatives) and a colored preparation. When examining a native or colored preparation, leukocytes, lymphocytes, and ragocytes can be detected ( cells that appear in rheumatoid arthritis), crystals. Normally, the number of cells in synovial fluid is 0.1 - 0.5 x 10 9 / l. When a pathological process occurs in the joint, cytosis increases.
• Microbiological analysis carried out to detect pathogenic microorganisms that may cause pathological processes in the joint.

ECG
An electrocardiogram is a method of studying the electrical activity of the heart. Deviations from the norm appear on the ECG due to pathological changes in the functioning of the heart. It is important to perform an ECG as quickly as possible in order to exclude certain heart diseases ( heart attack, angina).

Biopsy
A biopsy is a research method in which certain tissues of the human body are selected for diagnostic purposes. The material taken for research is called a biopsy. Histological and cytological ( cell composition analysis) biopsy examination.

The indication for a biopsy is a suspicion of tumor formations or damage to muscle tissue. The choice of treatment tactics largely depends on the results of the biopsy.

Electromyography
Electromyography is a very valuable method for diagnosing muscle tissue damage. The device with which the bioelectric potentials arising in the muscles are recorded is called an electromyograph, and the results are displayed in the form of an electromyogram. The electromyogram is recorded using electrodes that are fixed in the area under study. Using this method, you can determine the localization, distribution, nature of the lesion and monitor the dynamics of the pathological process.

Ultrasound
Ultrasound is prescribed to examine the abdominal organs, in diseases of which in some cases the pain spreads to the shoulder area. Such diseases are cholecystitis and pancreatitis.

Ultrasound diagnostics of the shoulder joint plays a special role in diagnosing the causes of shoulder pain. Ultrasound of the shoulder joint is prescribed for shoulder injuries, inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the joint. The method is highly informative, harmless and available in almost all medical institutions.

X-ray examination is used quite often for injuries to the shoulder area. X-rays are especially often prescribed for fractures, dislocations and degenerative changes in a bone or joint.

Indications for x-ray examination of the shoulder area are the following signs that appear in the shoulder area:

• soreness;
• swelling;
• deformation;
• limitation of mobility.

CT
CT ( CT scan) is prescribed for shoulder pain of unknown origin ( origin), with low information content of other diagnostic methods. This method is highly informative when studying the humerus and joint structures. Computed tomography can be performed with contrast ( injection of contrast agent), which allows for even better visualization of the tissues being examined.

MRI
MRI is a highly informative diagnostic method that allows you to detect even the smallest changes in almost all structures of the shoulder area. Using this method, it is possible to diagnose pathological changes in the shoulder muscles, shoulder tendons, the presence of tumor formations, and degenerative changes in tissues. MRI is more informative when examining soft tissues, in contrast to CT, which is more informative when examining bones and joints.

Arthropneumography
Arthropneumography is a method of examining a joint based on the introduction of gas into its cavity ( medical oxygen) after his puncture. Arthropneumography allows you to assess the condition of the joint capsule and ligaments.

Angiography
Angiography is a type of x-ray examination. Using this method, you can examine the condition of blood vessels and blood flow, and detect pathological changes in the vessels of the shoulder region.

Radionuclide diagnostics
Radionuclide diagnostics ( scintigraphy) is a research method that is based on the ability of tissues to absorb radionuclides ( in this case technetium is usually used) and subsequent scanning. The results of the study are displayed on the monitor. The largest amount of marker ( radionuclide) accumulates in the area of ​​the affected joint. Based on this sign, we can talk about the presence of pathology in it.

Which doctors should you consult if your shoulder hurts?

Doctors you can contact for shoulder pain include:

• family doctor;
• traumatologist;
• neurologist;
• orthopedist;
• rheumatologist.

Shoulder dislocation

The classification of shoulder dislocations is as follows:

• Anterointernal dislocations, which account for more than 95% of shoulder dislocations. Anterointernal dislocations can be precoracoid, subcoracoid and subclavian. Active movements in the joint are completely absent.
• Posterior dislocations can be subacromial and infraspinatus.
• Anteroinferior dislocations.

What structures are inflamed during shoulder dislocation?

Which doctor should I contact if I have a dislocated shoulder joint?

Diagnosis of shoulder dislocation

Diagnosis of shoulder dislocation is based on the following data:

• History data. When a dislocation occurs, patients complain of severe unbearable pain in the joint area, which can then radiate to neighboring areas. The pain intensifies with movement ( even with the slightest change in hand or body position). Then the pain gradually begins to subside and becomes weak after 2–3 weeks ( even if the dislocation was not reduced for any reason). Along with the pain, joint dysfunction and muscle pain occur.
• Examination of the patient. Upon examination, deformation of the affected area is revealed. The doctor also determines the mobility of the shoulder joint, sensitivity and mobility of the fingers.
• On an x-ray, in the presence of a dislocation, complete separation of the articular surfaces of the joint is noted, and in the case of subluxations, their partial separation is noted. Also, X-ray diagnostics for dislocations are performed to make sure that the dislocation is not accompanied by a fracture ( separation of bone fragments from the articular ends).

Is it possible to treat shoulder dislocation at home?

When transporting a patient to a hospital, it is necessary to carry out transport immobilization using special splints. If there are no tires, then use improvised means that are suitable for such a case ( scarf, piece of cloth).
Reduction of the dislocation is carried out under anesthesia, which, depending on the case, can be either local or general. Failure to follow the rules of reduction leads to serious complications - repeated dislocation, damage to blood vessels and nerves.

There are many techniques for reducing shoulder dislocation. The choice of one or another technique depends on the type of dislocation.

The most common methods for reducing shoulder dislocation include:

• Hippocrates' method. This method is used primarily for anteroinferior shoulder dislocations. With this method, the patient lies on his back and the doctor sits next to him. The doctor takes the injured limb and pulls it and at the same time presses the heel into the patient's armpit. After reduction, a cushion is placed in the armpit and the limb is immobilized.
• Dzhanelidze method. To perform this technique, the patient must lie on the edge of the couch on his side so that the affected arm is hanging. In this position, the patient should lie for 10 to 15 minutes so that the muscles of the shoulder girdle relax. After this, the doctor bends the limb at the elbow joint at a right angle, simultaneously stretching and slightly rotating ( rotating) forearm.
• Kocher's method. This method is used for anterior dislocations and is carried out in 4 stages. The patient is in a sitting position. Reduction of a dislocation using the Kocher method is more traumatic, so it is used when it is impossible to perform the above methods.
• Mota method is more universal and can be used for any type of dislocation.

The criteria for successful reduction of a dislocation are as follows:

• “clicking” sound in the joint;
• X-ray confirmation of reduction;
• restoration of joint functions, the ability to achieve full range of motion.

How is a shoulder dislocation treated at home?

Immobilization of the joint is performed in order to provide rest to the joint and create favorable conditions for the healing of the joint and soft tissues damaged during dislocation. Typically, the joint is immobilized for an average of 3 to 4 weeks.

Rehabilitation treatment consists of therapeutic physical education, therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy, thermal procedures, etc. Rehabilitation is carried out actively after a period of immobilization. It lasts approximately 2 – 3 weeks. Thus, with proper treatment, full working capacity is restored within 5–6 weeks.

Fracture as a cause of shoulder pain

The following types of humerus fractures are distinguished:

• Proximal fracture. This category includes fractures of the following structures - head, anatomical neck, surgical neck, tubercles of the humerus. In 45% of all humerus fractures, fractures occur in the proximal part.
• Diaphyseal fracture is quite rare.
• Distal fracture may affect the following structures - condyle, epicondyle, intercondylar space. Distal fractures are more common in children. Pain from a distal fracture is felt in the area of ​​the elbow joint.

What structures are inflamed during a humerus fracture?

Which doctor should I contact if I have a fractured humerus?

Diagnosis of a humerus fracture

Methods for diagnosing humerus fractures are:

• Physical examination. Symptoms that indicate the presence of a fracture are pain and dysfunction of the limb, which appear immediately after the fracture. Also, the fracture is accompanied by swelling and hematomas, which join the clinical picture a little later. Limb deformation occurs. The patient is usually in a forced position ( "begging" pose).
• X-ray examination. The X-ray picture of fractures consists of the following elements - the fracture line, the presence of bone fragments and their displacement ( transverse, longitudinal, oblique, etc.). Repeated radiographs are performed to monitor treatment and if a complication of the fracture is suspected.

Is it possible to treat a fractured humerus at home?

The goal of treatment for a fracture is not only to restore the anatomical integrity of the humerus ( fusion of fragments), but also functional recovery. Therefore, an integrated approach to treatment must be organized.

In general, treatment for a humerus fracture can be conservative or surgical. Conservative treatment consists of ensuring immobilization of the injured limb. This treatment method is usually used for fractures without displacement of the fragments. Immobilization is carried out with a plaster splint or thoracobrachial bandage. For fractures with displacement of fragments, closed comparison is performed, and then plaster immobilization. If closed reduction ( comparison) cannot be carried out, it is necessary to perform this manipulation using a surgical method.

Surgical treatment is carried out only in a specialized hospital and consists of comparison and osteosynthesis ( fixation of fragments using special plates, screws, knitting needles), fixation with external fixation devices. After a successful comparison, confirmed by x-ray signs, and stabilization of the patient’s condition, the patient is discharged from the hospital and continues treatment at home.

The duration of limb immobilization during a fracture largely depends on the location of the fracture.

Timing of limb immobilization for a humerus fracture

How is a humerus fracture treated at home?

The last stage in the treatment of a fracture is the post-immobilization period ( period after completion of limb immobilization) and rehabilitation ( restorative) period, which are very important for the restoration of the limb from a functional point of view.

The causes of shoulder arthritis are numerous. Moreover, different reasons can lead to different forms of arthritis.

The main causes of inflammation of the shoulder joint are:

• metabolic disorders ( gout);
• injuries;
• infections;
• degenerative age-related changes in the joint.

The main forms of inflammation of the shoulder joint are:

• Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic disease that is characterized by inflammation of the joints, as well as synovitis. More often occurs at the age of over 50 years. The etiology of this disease is unclear, and the mechanism of occurrence is considered autoimmune. Inflammation of the shoulder joint in rheumatoid arthritis occurs some time after inflammation of the joints of the hand. However, in some cases, the first joint affected by arthritis is the shoulder.
• Gouty arthritis. The joint most commonly affected by gout is the big toe joint, but the shoulder joint can also be affected. Shoulder pain due to gout manifests itself in the form of attacks of excruciating and unbearable pain, especially at night. Gout occurs due to poor nutrition and metabolic disorders.
• Post-traumatic arthritis occurs when inflammatory damage to joint structures occurs as a result of traumatic factors ( blow, fall). Usually accompanied by limited movement in the shoulder joint, severe pain, redness and swelling of the shoulder area.
• Osteoarthritis. The frequency of diagnosis of this disease increases with age. Osteoarthritis occurs due to degenerative-dystrophic changes in the shoulder joint. Hyaline cartilage is involved in the pathological process. Pain from osteoarthritis of the shoulder usually occurs after stress on the joint.
• Infectious arthritis may occur when pathogenic microorganisms enter the shoulder joint from other sites in the body or through direct infection ( in the presence of an open fracture). In some cases, identifying the primary source of infection is impossible.

What structures are inflamed in shoulder arthritis?

Which doctor should I consult for arthritis of the shoulder joint?

Diagnosis of shoulder arthritis

Methods for diagnosing arthritis of the shoulder joint are:

• Careful history taking. It is important to find out if the patient did not have a streptococcal infection 3 weeks ago. Also pay attention to the presence of injuries in the shoulder area in the anamnesis. The patient's age can also be an argument when making a diagnosis of shoulder arthritis.
• Patient examination. Upon examination, all signs of inflammation of the joint are revealed - redness, swelling, pain, disruption of its functions.
• Blood analysis. To diagnose arthritis, a general blood test is prescribed, in which the doctor, in the case of arthritis, is most interested in indicators such as leukocytes and ESR. To confirm the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatoid tests are required, which include indicators such as rheumatoid factor, antistreptolysin-O, CRP ( C-reactive protein). To diagnose gouty arthritis, it is necessary to determine the level of uric acid.
• X-ray examination usually performed in two projections. X-ray signs of arthritis are a slight narrowing of the joint space, the presence of osteophytes on the articular surface of the humerus, and osteoporosis. As the disease progresses, the narrowing of the joint space becomes significant, osteoporosis becomes more pronounced, and foci of bone tissue destruction appear.
• Ultrasound is a highly informative method for the early detection of arthritis, as well as for checking the effect of prescribed therapy. Ultrasound allows you to assess the severity of the pathological process. In this study, thickening of the synovial membrane and increased formation of intra-articular fluid are noted. Also, in some cases, ultrasound reveals synovial cysts.
• Arthroscopy allows you to assess the condition of the joint and take a sample of synovial fluid for subsequent analysis.
• Synovial fluid examination for arthritis provides very important diagnostic data. First, with arthritis, the color of the synovial fluid changes from light yellow to light brown, amber, and red. It also becomes translucent or cloudy, and a sediment appears, which is an indicator of high activity of the inflammatory process in the joint. Cytosis ( increased content of elements) increases significantly ( tens of times). With inflammatory damage to the joint, neutrophils predominate in the synovial fluid ( up to 90%), the share of which is normally 1 – 2%. With degenerative joint damage, the number of lymphocytes increases to 85%. In gouty arthritis, monosodium urate crystals may be found in the synovial fluid.
• CT. CT scan shows morphological changes in the shoulder joint and bone, if it is involved in the pathological process.
• MRI allows you to assess the degree of soft tissue damage.
• Scintigraphy reveals the localization and extent of damage to the inflamed joint due to increased accumulation of radiopharmaceuticals in this area ( radiopharmaceutical).

Is it possible to treat shoulder arthritis at home?

Surgical treatment of shoulder arthritis consists of the following interventions:

• Arthroscopy has great advantages over open surgical interventions, since when using this method, the patient’s recovery time and hospital stay is reduced several times, and the method itself is minimally traumatic.
• Arthroplasty is an operation that is performed to restore joint function. For this purpose, special plastic and metal prostheses are used.

How is shoulder arthritis treated at home?

At home, patients should adhere to the treatment prescribed by the doctor, which consists of the following components:

• mode;
• drug treatment;
• physiotherapy.

Diet
The diet consists of eliminating certain foods rich in purines in case of gout. It is also recommended to eat foods rich in vitamins to strengthen overall strength. Another direction of the diet for arthritis is to exclude foods that contribute to obesity in order to reduce the load on the joint. Of course, diet should be combined with exercise.

Taking medications
Drug treatment plays a big role in the treatment of inflammation of the shoulder joint.
All medications taken must be prescribed by a doctor.

For inflammation of the shoulder joint, the following groups of drugs can be prescribed:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin) help to weaken the inflammatory process and relieve pain. However, long-term use of these drugs is fraught with complications from the gastrointestinal tract due to irritation of the gastric mucosa.
• Corticosteroids (prednisolone). Prescribing drugs from this group must be done with great caution due to the high likelihood of side effects.
• Antibiotics prescribed for infectious etiology of inflammation.

Synovitis as a cause of shoulder pain

In older people, the regenerative abilities of tissues are limited and often the joints “wear out” and lose their shock-absorbing properties, which, as a rule, leads to the occurrence of synovitis. Often synovitis develops simultaneously with other inflammatory diseases accompanied by shoulder pain ( arthritis), which makes it difficult to diagnose this disease, since both of these diseases cause similar symptoms. There is also an isolated form of synovitis, which is an independent disease. In the initial stages, the disease is often asymptomatic. Clinical and paraclinical signs of the disease appear at stages 2 and 3, when the pathological process affects not only the joint, but also soft tissues and bone.

In general, synovitis is divided into infectious and non-infectious. Infectious synovitis occurs due to the action of pathogenic microorganisms ( staphylococcus, mycobacterium, etc.). Non-infectious synovitis often occurs as a result of injuries, endocrine disorders, and allergic reactions. Synovitis can be localized, when only a small area of ​​the synovial membrane is affected, and generalized, when the entire synovial membrane is involved in the inflammatory process. In most cases, patients present with diffuse ( generalized) form of synovitis.

What structures are inflamed during synovitis of the shoulder joint?

Which doctor should I consult for synovitis of the shoulder joint?

Diagnosis of synovitis of the shoulder joint

• Anamnesis. The patient describes the initial stages as a feeling of “friction” in the joint, which does not go away for a long time. Then, along with this sensation, swelling, redness and soreness appear in the area.
• Ultrasound of the shoulder joint. Ultrasound may reveal thickening of the synovial membrane, the presence of joint effusion, and stretching of the joint capsule.
• Shoulder joint puncture carried out for the purpose of selecting synovial fluid for laboratory testing.
• Examination of synovial fluid. With synovitis, a change in the physicochemical characteristics of the synovial fluid is noted, and Charcot-Leyden crystals may be detected. Also in the synovial fluid, the appearance of a sediment formed from microscopic fragments of the affected synovial membrane is noted, which indicates the high inflammatory activity of the pathological process.
• X-ray of the shoulder joint. This research method allows you to detect an increase in volume and compaction ( in the form of knots) soft tissues, slight narrowing of the joint space, the presence of foci of bone destruction in the form of small cyst-like clearings.
• Arthropneumography in case of synovitis, it is more informative than conventional radiography. This study is usually carried out in three projections. An arthropneumogram of the shoulder joint with synovitis reveals a “honeycomb” symptom ( accumulation of gas introduced into the joint cavity in the form of round formations measuring 0.1 - 0.2 cm), there is a thickening of the walls of the synovial capsule, a change in the internal contour of the joint. Thread-like and nodular compactions in the joint cavity are also detected.
• Angiography. An angiogram reveals dilation of the blood vessels of the arterial and venous beds of the shoulder area. Sometimes arteriovenous shunts are detected ( artery-vein connection).

Is it possible to treat synovitis of the shoulder joint at home?

How is synovitis of the shoulder joint treated at home?

When treating synovitis at home, the following conditions must be observed:

• Peace. To begin treatment, it is advisable to stop loading the joint and ensure rest. Rest of the joint is ensured by immobilization, which is usually carried out using bandages. Immobilization for synovitis usually lasts about seven days. Unnecessary long-term immobilization is not recommended, as it can lead to problematic restoration of joint mobility.
• Cold compresses. It is recommended to apply cold compresses to the affected area, which relieves joint swelling and relieves pain.
• Taking painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. They help ease the acute phase of synovitis. It is important that medications are discussed with your doctor. It is also important to evaluate the effect of the drug taken during periodic monitoring and, if necessary, make adjustments to treatment tactics. Medicines can be prescribed both for oral administration and for local use. Indomethacin and ibuprofen have a good effect.
• Taking antibacterial drugs. Antibiotics are prescribed if synovitis was caused or complicated by an infectious process. It is recommended to prescribe antibiotics after determining the sensitivity of microorganisms to them.

Shoulder sprain as a cause of shoulder pain

Symptoms of a shoulder sprain include:

• shoulder pain;
• pain on palpation;
• limitation of movements in the shoulder joint;
• swelling of the shoulder area;
• hyperemia ( redness) and bruising in the area.

There are 3 degrees of severity for shoulder sprains:

• 1st degree is the mildest and is accompanied by minor pain in the shoulder area.
• 2nd degree accompanied by more intense pain and swelling in the affected area.
• 3rd degree is the most severe, characterized by severe pain, swelling and redness of the shoulder joint, and limited mobility.

What structures are inflamed during a shoulder sprain?

Which doctor should I consult if I have a shoulder sprain?

Diagnosis of shoulder sprain

The diagnosis of shoulder sprain is based on the following data:

• Anamnesis. The doctor finds out under what conditions shoulder pain appeared ( doing exercises, falling on your hand, hitting you on the shoulder), and under what conditions it increases.
• After collecting anamnesis, the doctor begins to examine the patient. Initially, a visual inspection of the affected area is carried out and the presence of bruising, swelling, and redness is checked. The next step is palpation of the affected area, which is very painful when the ligaments are sprained. After this, the doctor examines the mobility of the shoulder joint, the movements of which in this case are very limited.
• X-ray examination. This research method is prescribed to exclude a fracture, bone crack or dislocation of the shoulder joint.
• MRI prescribed in rare cases to study the intensity of soft tissue damage.
• Arthroscopy or ultrasound examination of the joint is prescribed to exclude joint damage along with sprained ligaments.

Is it possible to treat a shoulder sprain at home?

How is a shoulder sprain treated at home?

Treatment of shoulder sprains is carried out using the following methods:

• Peace. The first and main condition for cure is to ensure rest of the affected limb. If this condition is not met, the risk of disease progression and complications increases. Rest can be ensured by temporarily avoiding physical exercise, heavy lifting, and generally limiting movement in the shoulder joint. It is also recommended to apply a bandage that fixes the joint in one position. It is recommended to wear the bandage until the pain subsides, after which it is removed and rehabilitation exercises begin gradually.
• Applying ice. Ice is not applied directly, but through a napkin or towel for 15–20 minutes with breaks of 3–4 hours. Like a bandage, ice is recommended for the first few days after an injury. This method helps relieve swelling and pain.
• Recovery exercises begin to be performed as the inflammatory process subsides. If their implementation is accompanied by pain, they should be postponed for some time. Start with easy exercises, gradually moving on to more complex ones.
• Drug treatment consists of prescribing painkillers that can be applied topically or orally ( pills). For local treatment, ointments and creams are usually prescribed and applied to the skin of the damaged area. The most commonly prescribed tablets are ibuprofen and naproxen, which in addition to their analgesic effect can also relieve redness and swelling.

Inflammation of the shoulder muscles ( myositis)

The most common forms of myositis are:

• Polymyositis most often affects the adult population. As a rule, patients complain of increasing weakness and pain in the shoulder muscles, which gradually spread to almost the entire limb.
• Dermatomyositis, unlike other forms, more often affects women. This type of myositis is the easiest to diagnose, since in addition to muscle damage, it also manifests itself as a characteristic rash ( due to damage to the subcutaneous vessels). The rash usually appears long before muscle pain and weakness.
• Myositis with inclusions most often affects men over 50 years of age. This form of the disease is much less common than others and has a slowly progressive course.
• Juvenile myositis. It affects children under 18 years of age, with the most common cases reported in girls.

Muscle inflammation can be caused by one factor or a combination of several reasons at the same time.

For myositis, you can contact the following specialists:

• therapist;
• rheumatologist;
• traumatologist ( treats myositis associated with various types of injuries).

Diagnosis of shoulder muscle inflammation

Methods for diagnosing myositis are:

• History and physical examination. The main manifestations of myositis are pain in the shoulder muscles and muscle weakness. The pain is intense and intensifies after movements or palpation of the muscles. In the advanced stage, the pain becomes constant. As a result of myositis, muscle atrophy may develop. In addition to pain on palpation, cords or nodules can be detected ( "goose feather symptom"), which is associated with the formation of fibrous tissue ( fibrous connective tissue). With shoulder myositis, patients, as a rule, are in a forced position and minimally move the limb, as this causes pain.
• Changes in general blood test appear only with the infectious nature of the disease or systemic diseases and usually consist of an increase in the level of leukocytes and ESR.
• Electromyography ( EMG). This method is prescribed without fail if myositis is suspected. Using EMG, you can detect acute or chronic inflammatory processes in the shoulder muscles and exclude pathology of nerves and tendons. EMG is also performed in order to analyze the course of the disease and evaluate the effectiveness of prescribed therapy.
• Biopsy is a classic diagnostic method for myositis. A biopsy can be performed with open access to the material ( during surgery) or during puncture with a thick needle. The second technique is more gentle, but often the material collected using this technique is not enough for research. This procedure can be carried out under the control of ultrasound, CT, MRI. When analyzing a biopsy, an inflammatory infiltrate and changes in muscle fibers can be detected ( necrosis, atrophy). Biopsy results can be obtained within about a week.
• Immunological blood test. This study detects autoantibodies specific for myositis. There are a large number of antibodies that can be detected in the blood during myositis. The main myositis-specific autoantibodies include antinuclear factor, antisynthetase antibodies, anti-Mi2 antibodies, and anti-SRP antibodies. Antibodies can be detected even before clinical symptoms of the disease appear.
• Biochemical markers of myositis. These include creatine phosphokinase, transaminases ( AST, ALT), myoglobin, aldolase, lactate dehydrogenase. Biochemical markers can confirm myolysis ( damage and destruction of striated muscles).
• Ultrasound allows you to analyze the activity of the pathological process ( active, inactive, chronic), determine the severity of the disease, localization of the lesion, spread of the process;
• MRI. Using this diagnostic method, you can determine the exact location and distribution of the inflammatory process, the type of lesion ( swelling, inflammation, fibrosis, infiltration). MRI is also used to determine the target for biopsy.

The main criteria for establishing the diagnosis of myositis are:

• decreased muscle strength;
• increased activity of muscle enzymes in blood serum and detection of myositis-specific autoantibodies;
• electromyography results;
• biopsy results;
• characteristic skin rash.

Is it possible to treat shoulder muscle inflammation at home?

How is shoulder muscle inflammation treated at home?

Treatment of myositis is carried out using the following drugs:

• Corticosteroids are standard drugs for muscle inflammation. These drugs are prescribed strictly in doses, and in the lowest possible dose. This is due to the presence of a large number of possible side effects. When a positive effect is achieved and clinical manifestations weaken, the dose of the drug is gradually reduced to a maintenance dose. The question of changing the dosage is decided only by the attending physician based on clinical and laboratory parameters. These drugs include prednisolone and methylprednisolone.
• Immunosuppressants prescribed in cases of lack of therapeutic effect of corticosteroid therapy. These drugs suppress the overreaction of the immune system. Such drugs include methotrexate, cyclosporine ( is an alternative to corticosteroids and is a long-acting immunosuppressant), azathioprine.
• Antibacterial drugs are prescribed for the infectious etiology of myositis, when the disease occurs as a complication of infectious diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs. The most commonly prescribed drugs are diclofenac, ketorolac, nimesulide.

Along with drug treatment, the patient must follow a number of rules. Firstly, he must lead an active lifestyle. It is very important for him to stay active as much as possible. Patients must systematically perform special exercises. Also important is a balanced diet, which not only strengthens the body's defenses, but also to a certain extent prevents the side effects of corticosteroid therapy. A special role in the treatment of myositis is given to therapeutic exercises, massage, physiotherapeutic methods, diet, ergotherapy ( occupational therapy), use of orthopedic devices.

Why does my shoulder and neck hurt?

Factors that contribute to pain in the shoulder and neck area are:

• staying in one position for a long time ( working at a computer, working on a conveyor belt without breaks, sleeping in an awkward position);
• moving significant weights;
• being in drafty rooms;
• grueling workouts with heavy loads without gradually increasing them;
• the effect of traumatic factors.

The most common causes of shoulder and neck pain are:

• Cervical osteochondrosis. The most characteristic sign of cervical osteochondrosis is pain in the cervical spine. The pain is accompanied by tension in the neck muscles. Pain in the neck with osteochondrosis is called cervicalgia. With compression ( squeezing) nerve roots, pain also appears in the shoulder area, which sometimes even spreads to the entire arm. In this case, they talk about cervicobrachialgia.
• Scoliosis is a deformation of the spine, manifested by its curvature. Scoliosis can lead to the gradual destruction of intervertebral discs. With scoliosis of the cervical spine, due to its curvature, one shoulder becomes lower than the other. Pain may occur due to compression of the nerve roots.
• Spinal and shoulder injuries. Bruises, dislocations, subluxations, fractures and many other injuries of the spine and shoulder are accompanied by severe pain in the shoulder and neck. To exclude the traumatic origin of pain, instrumental research methods are prescribed ( X-ray examination, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging).
• Muscle inflammation ( myositis) shoulder girdle and free upper limb. This pathological condition is accompanied by severe pain in the neck and shoulder. Due to pain, patients cannot turn their heads, often staying in one position. Also, patients cannot raise their arm, as inflammation of the muscles makes movement in the shoulder joint difficult.
• Radiculopathy of the cervical spine. As a result of degenerative changes in the vertebrae, a decrease in the height of the intervertebral discs, a decrease in the intervertebral space, and the appearance of osteophytes, damage to the nerve roots occurs. As a result, pain appears in the shoulder and neck area, a feeling of numbness, and muscle weakness.

Methods to combat neck and shoulder pain are:

• combating a sedentary lifestyle;
• avoiding moving heavy objects;
• increasing the body's defenses;
• massage of the cervical-collar area;
• taking medications for inflammatory diseases of this area.

Why does my shoulder and hand hurt?

Pain in the shoulder and hand can occur early in the morning after waking up or during the day after prolonged stress on the limb. This pain often occurs in people who work at a computer for a long time.

The diseases that are most often accompanied by pain in the shoulder and hand area are:

• Shoulder syndrome- This is a fairly rare disease that occurs in people over 50 years of age. The etiology and mechanism of occurrence of this disease have not been studied. The first symptom is severe pain that appears in the shoulder area and then spreads to the hand area. Next, swelling of the entire arm appears; any movement of the limb causes pain. Patients also complain of numbness in the affected limb. The pain is excruciating and persists for a long time. This disease is treated with corticosteroids. The diagnosis is made based on clinical data and the exclusion of other pathologies with similar symptoms.
• Polyarthritis is an inflammation of several joints at the same time. With polyarthritis, there is acute pain, which intensifies when pressure is applied to the articular capsules of the shoulder and wrist joints.
• Brachial neuritis. This disease is characterized by sudden pain, which intensifies when trying to move the hand. Inflammation of the brachial nerve is not a commonly diagnosed disease.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome ( carpal tunnel syndrome). This syndrome is quite common and usually occurs in people whose work involves performing monotonous hand movements. The cause of pain is compression syndrome, which manifests itself as compression of the median nerve. The pain initially appears in the area of ​​the hand and wrist joint, and then spreads to the entire arm, including the shoulder.

Why does my shoulder hurt and go numb?

The most common causes of shoulder numbness and pain are:

• Intervertebral hernia of the cervical spine. This pathological condition occurs when the intervertebral disc is destroyed as a result of injury, scoliosis, or degenerative changes. As a result of the action of the etiological factor, the discs begin to collapse, their central core is displaced and the fibrous ring, located along the periphery of the disc, ruptures.
• Scalenus syndrome. With this disease, hypertrophy of the scalene muscles occurs, which begin on the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae and attach to the first ribs. The disease may not appear for a long time. Clinically, scalene muscle syndrome is manifested by severe pain in the clavicle and shoulder area, impaired sensitivity and numbness ( paresthesia) shoulder area. These symptoms arise as a result of compression of the vessels and nerve fibers of the brachial plexus by hypertrophied muscles.
• Tumors in the shoulder area can lead to compression ( squeezing) brachial plexus. Thus, symptoms such as pain, numbness, and swelling in the shoulder area appear.
• Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. Osteochondrosis most often affects the cervical region. Factors that provoke the development of osteochondrosis are injuries and prolonged overstrain of the spine. Osteochondrosis often manifests itself not only as pain in the cervical spine, but also pain and numbness in the shoulder area and upper limbs as a whole.
• Injuries. When the shoulder area is injured, the nerve endings may be compressed, which may result in a temporary loss of skin and muscle sensitivity and numbness of the limb.
• Humeroscapular periarthritis. This disease often occurs between the ages of 40 and 50 and most often affects women. There is severe shoulder pain and numbness that spreads to the entire limb. The occurrence of this disease is often associated with prolonged bed rest in bedridden patients and prolonged lack of physical activity.

Why does my shoulder hurt when I raise my arm up?

Most often, pain in the shoulder when raising the arm occurs as a consequence of the following pathologies:

• Shoulder dislocation. When a dislocation occurs, the articular surfaces of the shoulder joint cease to contact, which leads to the inability to perform movements characteristic of this joint. Trying to make a movement causes severe pain.
• Humerus fracture accompanied by severe pain when trying to make any movements in the limb.
• Injury Most often occurs when hit or dropped on the shoulder. With severe bruises, a hematoma or bleeding into the cavity of the shoulder joint may appear ( hemarthrosis), swelling of the shoulder area, inability to raise the arm.
• Sprained ligaments or muscles of the shoulder usually occurs in athletes when performing exercises without pre-warming the muscles ( warm-up). This condition is very painful, and when you try to raise your arm, the pain intensifies.
• Overvoltage which can occur during long-term training, when working with raised arms in a lying or sitting position ( hyperabduction syndrome in people repairing cars, which is characterized by impaired blood supply and innervation of the upper limb). Overexertion can also occur due to heavy lifting.
• Arthritis is an inflammatory disease of the joint. Arthritis pain is severe and is accompanied by signs of joint inflammation - redness, swelling, limited movement, swelling.
• Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis usually occurs in older people, since the occurrence of this disease is based on age-related changes in the joint and bone.
• Periarthritis is a disease of the tissues surrounding the joint. Periarthritis can be either a separate disease or appear against the background of other rheumatological diseases and joint diseases.

If a person has constant and periodic aching pain in the shoulder, then he should consult a doctor to find out the cause of the pain and establish an accurate diagnosis. Such pain can have different periods, be mixed, occur at different times with different strengths and be caused by completely different factors.

In most cases, pain in the shoulder joint occurs in the patient after prolonged physical activity or after the arm has been in an unnatural position for a long time. Such sensations are usually accompanied by numbness of the affected area, tingling, and muscle spasms. As a rule, with such complaints, the patient is diagnosed with damage to the musculoskeletal system. Pain in the left shoulder may be a sign of inflammatory processes in the spine, osteochondrosis or radiculitis.

Causes of pain

Pain in the right shoulder can be caused by various diseases and injuries. First of all, it may be deformation and damage to the tendons that are located around the shoulder joint. This disease is called tendonitis. It is caused by excessive physical activity, as a result of which the tendons rub against the bone.

Bursitis can cause pain in the right shoulder in patients. This disease also appears as a result of constant physical activity, but the affected area is much larger. The disease affects the tendons, joints and joint box. Pain in the right shoulder is a bad sign. In many cases, this indicates the deposition of calcium salts on the joints. This can lead to complete immobilization of the patient. This can cause severe pain. Patients over 35 years of age are susceptible to this disease. The pain is aching but intense and lasts constantly.

Right shoulder pain can be caused by any injury. Less commonly, the cause of such sensations can be inflammation, tumor or hereditary pathology. If the bone comes out of the joint due to injury, it will cause severe misalignment and cause severe pain in the left or right shoulder. When a person falls, he can try to soften the fall and put his palm forward. The arm rotates and tendon injuries may occur.

Painful sensations in the left shoulder can be triggered by an injury not only of a domestic nature, but also of a sports nature. Quite often, both young and adult athletes receive such injuries during competitions and training. Pain in the left shoulder is common for those who frequently lift heavy objects. 80% of bodybuilders suffer from such joint damage. The main reason is instability of the joint box.

Unpleasant aching sensations in the left shoulder can be caused by damage to internal organs. If a patient has pneumonia, liver disease, or a tumor in the chest area, this may cause pain in the right or left shoulder. The manifestation of periarthrosis in a patient may begin with pain in the right shoulder. While the disease progresses over several months, all this time the pain in the right shoulder will begin to intensify.

The cause of pain is usually arthritis, arthrosis, hernia, excessive stress on the spine, tendon rupture, and radiculitis.

Methods of treating diseases

If pain in the shoulder joint appears from time to time and does not cause any particular inconvenience, its appearance may be associated with various physical activities or staying in one position for a long time. If the pain in the shoulder joint is constant and has been tormenting you for some period, then the reasons may be different. This means it's time to see a doctor.

Most often, shoulder pain may indicate a curvature of the spine. Therefore, you need to do everything at home in order to consolidate the effectiveness of drug treatment. Try to keep your back straight and work on your posture. Buy special orthopedic insoles. You can ask your doctor to write a prescription. Special corrective corsets have a very effective effect on shoulder pain. They help the spinal muscles, straighten the back and reduce stress on the shoulder joints.

The causes of aching sensations can be very different, but there are many effective treatment options. To reduce the impact on your shoulders, you can use special pillows and bolsters that are used while sleeping or sitting. Such devices reduce the impact on the joints and promote normal blood circulation, which helps reduce pain in the shoulder joint. In addition to rollers, there are also special collars. But you can only wear such a device during prolonged pain in your left shoulder for 2 days in a row.

If the patient suffered from a severe injury and a long-term injury appeared because of this, then the doctor prescribes several massage sessions. Such treatment can only be performed by a certified and experienced specialist. Otherwise, the damage to the shoulder may worsen.

In classical treatment, the doctor usually prescribes anti-inflammatory and painkillers to patients. Ointments and gels can act on the body in different ways. But in most cases they do not bring the desired result. What to do? If, in addition to painful sensations, the patient’s temperature rises in the right shoulder and general weakness is observed, then it is necessary to go to the hospital without delay.

It is advisable to immobilize the patient for a while and avoid loading the spine and shoulder area.

Prevention of pain symptoms

The causes of aching sensations can be completely different. In some cases, the triggers are injuries and illnesses. But in certain situations, the appearance of such sensations is the patient’s fault. You need to take care of your shoulders and spine just as much as other parts of your body. In order to prevent shoulder pain, it is necessary to minimize the possibility of developing such an ailment:

1. Try to reduce physical activity if there is a lot of it during the day.
2. Balance your diet. Try to avoid high salt intake.
3. Choose the right positions for sleeping, reading, watching movies.
4. Try to always keep your back straight.

Consider the fact that proper separation of mental and physical activity during the day is the key to a healthy spine, neck, and shoulders. Get up from your computer regularly after every 2 hours of work. Walk, stretch your back, do exercise therapy. If you spend a long time at home at the computer, then find 5 minutes to lie on the floor and let your back relax. When you sit, try not to arch your back, but sit straight. Get a relaxing massage every evening.

Use special massage rollers and pillows. This will improve the effect of the procedures.

Folk remedies

What to do if pain in the shoulders does not go away? In addition to conventional treatment, you can use the advice of traditional medicine. These methods will help relieve shoulder pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to make a decoction of nettle and rosemary. Both of these products are very useful. Take 50 g of this decoction every day. In addition, compresses can be made from it. To do this, soak a cloth in a decoction of herbs and apply it to the sore spot. Wrap the compress in plastic and wrap it with a warm scarf.

Pain in the shoulder joint can be neutralized with an alcohol tincture of lilac. Every day at night, wipe the affected areas of your hands with this infusion. After long-term regular use of the medicine, the discomfort should go away. Prepare a decoction of viburnum. After it, your joints will no longer ache. Pour 2 tbsp. l. viburnum 1 liter of boiling water. Let the broth brew for 1 hour.

Shoulder pain can be relieved with coffee. Only it needs to be made from dandelion roots. Take some fresh roots and wash them well, dry them, cut them into small pieces and place them in the oven for half an hour. When the roots turn brown, it means they are ready. Grind the root pieces in a coffee grinder and brew like coffee. The drink should infuse for 20 minutes. You need to take the medicine at least 3 times a day.

Mix 100 g of honey and 1 liter of vodka. Let the mixture brew for 14 days and use the tincture as compresses every day. This medicine neutralizes pain in the shoulder joint. Be sure to wrap the area with a compress for greater effect. Try walnut compresses. They are good for relieving shoulder pain. Take the shells of 10 large nuts, chop them and pour vodka. Place the tincture in a dark, dry place for 25 days. The infusion must be stirred every day. Take the medicine 3 times a day, 1 tsp. before meals.

In order to relieve pain in the shoulder joint, you need to eat a lot of dairy products. To make the medicine, take 250 ml of fresh cow's milk and add 2 ml of alcohol or vodka to it. You need to drink this mixture every day in the morning.

Treatment will not be effective immediately. But after 2-3 weeks the result will be noticeable.

Physiotherapy

Pain in the shoulder joint can be overcome and prevented with the help of a special course of exercises that is aimed at strengthening the muscles of the back and neck. Such elements must be performed for any disorders in the spine and inflammation of the joints to normalize processes in the body. Shoulder pain will go away if the patient performs these exercises regularly and conscientiously.

For the first exercise, sit on a chair or stand with your back straight. Lower your arms down and keep your head straight. Turn your head all the way to the right. Hold for 2 seconds and return to the starting position. Now turn your head to the left. Make 6 turns in each direction. Now tilt your head down and try to press your chin to your chest as tightly as possible.

Shoulder pain will go away if you focus on doing the exercises, put as much effort into it as possible, and then give your body a rest. Straighten your back and lower your arms down. Lower your head back and try to tuck your chin in. Do this exercise very carefully.
Sit on a chair and place one palm on your forehead. Tilt your head down and at the same time press your forehead with your palm. If you are experiencing pain in your left shoulder, then perform this exercise with your left hand.

The duration of one stage is 15 seconds. After this, you can change hands. It is advisable to perform the exercise with both hands for prevention. Now do a similar exercise. Place your palm against your temple and bend to the left and right. At this time, lightly press your palm on your temple.
To perform the following exercise, you can be in a standing or sitting position. Lower your arms down and raise your shoulders all the way. Stay in this state for 15 seconds. Take a deep breath and slowly lower your shoulders. Relax your entire body completely. Your hands should become heavy. Give yourself a rest for 10 seconds and repeat the exercise.

Now in the last exercise, do self-massage. This will relieve shoulder pain well. You can sit or lie down for this exercise. Massage the back of your head and its muscles. Don't be afraid to hurt yourself. The massage should be strong and last 4-5 minutes. Then go down to the neck and shoulder blades. Massage this area for 4 minutes.