Shoulder pain or sometimes referred to as shoulder tendinopathy is where pain is experienced either at a specific site of the shoulder or across a broad area. Shoulder pain can happen suddenly from traumatic events such as a fall or sudden impact during sport like rugby or football.

It can also be caused by prolonged repetitive activities such as computer desk work, mobile phone use, driving long distances amongst a few.

Often when pain presents, it can feel like-

-an ache or throbbing sensation when attempting to lift arm or when lying on it.

- tenderness when toughing the area of concern

- weakness of the arm

- swelling

SYMPTOMS

Often shoulder pain can go away within 2 weeks however this is not always the case and therefore important to act quickly if symptoms persist or become worse over time. Its best to avoid self-diagnosing and seek professional help from a certified medical or allied health professional like a GP, Physiotherapist or Remedial Massage therapist. This is because you may have a condition that is best managed by these experts.

Below are some of the reasons to seek help-

-pain or stiffness that does not go away after months of years

-pain that worsen when using the arm

- tingling, numbness, down the arm

- loss or reduced ability to grip objects

-pain on top of the shoulder

MANAGEMENT

Though shoulder pain can be painful and uncomfortable, it's important to maintain an active lifestyle within your limited ability, while building up slowly to full function. Below are examples of strategies that can help reduce pain while restoring shoulder full range of motion, strength and stability.

-stay active and gently move your shoulder

-try shoulder exercises for 6 to 8 weeks to stop pain returning

-stand up straight with your shoulders down and gently back

-sit with a cushion behind your lower back

-rest your arm on a cushion in your lap

-use pain relief such as heat or cold packs

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