Almost everyone has experienced it at some point – a painful shoulder. Turning over in bed becomes difficult, or lifting your (grand)child can be a challenge. Shoulder pain can seriously hinder your daily activities. Often, shoulder discomfort resolves after 1 to 2 weeks, but what can you do to relieve the pain yourself? And if the pain persists, what are your options? You’ll find the answers in this article.
What Is Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain is discomfort felt in and around the shoulder joint. Sometimes the pain radiates to your shoulder blades, arm, hand, or neck. Moving your arm may become difficult and painful. The pain can also persist even when you’re not moving, and sometimes it’s so severe that you can’t lie on your shoulder.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
The causes of shoulder pain can vary. Sometimes it starts without a clear reason. Often, it results from performing the same movements over a long period, such as playing tennis, golfing, or using a computer mouse. Jobs where you frequently hold your arms up, like painting, can also lead to shoulder pain. Other causes include osteoarthritis (joint wear), neck problems, aging, or stress. Acute pain can also result from lifting something heavy or making a wrong movement during exercise.
If your shoulder pain persists, calcification, thickening, or even a tear in a tendon may occur. This can be diagnosed via an ultrasound.
How Long Does Shoulder Pain Last?
Shoulder pain usually resolves on its own, such as with a mild sports injury or when you’ve made an incorrect movement. Generally, recovery takes two to six weeks. However, if the pain is due to long-term overuse, recovery may take longer.
What Can You Do for Persistent Shoulder Pain?
If you’re dealing with ongoing shoulder pain, you’ll naturally want to take action. First, let’s look at what you can do yourself. We’ll also discuss options for physical therapy, pain relief, and alternative, natural treatments.
Self-Care for Shoulder Pain
Keep moving your shoulder and arm. This helps prevent the pain from worsening and keeps your shoulder from “freezing” (frozen shoulder). Continue with your daily activities, but avoid heavy exertion like lifting or frequently holding your arm above your head. If moving your shoulder (or arm) is too painful, rest for a few days and then gradually return to your regular activities.
Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain
If movement is difficult, a physiotherapist can help. The therapist will first examine your shoulder and then recommend exercises you can do at home. They will assess the position of your shoulder, compare it to the other shoulder, determine which movements cause pain, and also check your neck and head movements. Physiotherapy treatments are often not covered by standard insurance, depending on factors like your age and the reason for therapy. You can read more about this on the Dutch Government’s website.
Pain Relief for Shoulder Pain
To ease the pain, you can take painkillers like paracetamol. If that doesn’t help, ibuprofen or naproxen are alternatives, but be mindful of side effects like stomach discomfort. Always read the package insert and consult your doctor. For persistent pain, you might consider a pain injection with an anti-inflammatory agent. Looking for an alternative, pain-free way to relieve shoulder pain? Read below about Nano CellCare therapy.
Alternative Treatment for Persistent Shoulder Pain
Nano CellCare Therapy
If painkillers don’t provide enough relief or physiotherapy exercises aren’t working for your shoulder pain, Nano CellCare therapy could be an option. This therapy uses hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joints. Hyaluronic acid is used in supplements and injections to treat osteoarthritis pain and injuries. Nano CellCare is a non-invasive and pain-free method of absorbing hyaluronic acid into the body. The innovative Nano CellCare technology transforms key substances like hyaluronic acid, Dead Sea salt, and vitamin C into nanoparticles. This allows the body to absorb the substances locally or transport them to priority areas.
Considering a Nano CellCare Treatment?
Curious about what Nano CellCare can do for you? Make an appointment with a certified Nano CellCare therapist near you via our Treatment Locator.
When to See a Doctor for Shoulder Pain
Are you unsure about your shoulder pain and wondering when you should see a doctor? Contact your healthcare provider in the following cases:
- If the pain worsens or doesn’t go away after a few weeks
- If the pain gets worse when you cough
- If painkillers don’t help
- If physiotherapy exercises don’t work at all
Note: Shoulder pain can sometimes be caused by the heart. If you experience severe shoulder pain combined with nausea or excessive sweating, contact your doctor immediately or call emergency services.
