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Shoulder Pain Pamphlet PDF
Shoulder Pain Pamphlet PDF
www.arthritisresearchuk.org 2306/P-SHOU/12-9
How does the shoulder work? What can be done to help? Rest and exercise
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the If your pain has a particular cause, like Aim for a balance between rest and activity
body. The main shoulder joint is a ball-and- arthritis, treating that condition may help. to prevent the shoulder from stiffening.
socket joint, which allows a very wide range Following the self-help tips and exercises Pace yourself to start with and try to do a
of movement. The joint is surrounded by here will also help, but if your pain isn’t bit more each day. Try to avoid movements
a tough fibrous sleeve called the capsule, improving after about 2 weeks then that are most painful, especially those
which helps to hold the joint together. A group you should speak to your GP. that hold your arm away from your body
of four muscles and their tendons make and above shoulder height. It’s important
up the rotator cuff, which controls movement Medication to remain active, even if you have to limit
and also helps to hold the joint together. Painkillers such as paracetamol and how much you do.
There’s another smaller joint where the top ibuprofen may help and you should
use them if you need to. It’s important Posture
of the shoulder blade meets the collarbone.
that you take them regularly and at the Don’t sit leaning forwards with your arm
recommended dose to help you control the held tightly by your side. This position can
What causes shoulder pain? pain and allow you to continue exercising. make the problem worse, especially if some
There are many causes of shoulder pain, but Don’t wait until your pain is severe before of the pain is coming from your neck. When
most cases will only affect a small area and taking painkillers. You can also rub anti- sitting, keep a pillow or cushion behind your
are relatively short-lived. Shoulder pain may inflammatory cream directly onto the lower back with your arm supported on a
also be part of a general condition such as painful area. cushion on your lap.
rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
You shouldn’t take ibuprofen or aspirin if Reducing the strain
Shoulder pain isn’t always caused by a you’re pregnant or have asthma, indigestion When raising your arm or lifting objects,
problem in the shoulder joint – problems in or an ulcer until you’ve spoken to your doctor reduce the strain or pull on your shoulder by:
the neck can cause pain that’s felt over the or pharmacist. Medication can have side-
shoulder blade or in the upper outer arm. • keeping your elbow bent and in front
effects so you should read the label carefully
and check with your pharmacist if you have of your body
Main features of the shoulder any queries. • keeping your palm facing the ceiling.
To lower your arm, bend your elbow,
Rotator cuff Rotator cuff Physiotherapy
bringing your hand closer to your body.
tendon muscles If your shoulder pain is affecting your activity
Acromioclavicular
and is persisting, ask your GP about referral Your pain should ease within 2
joint
to a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy can weeks and you should recover over
Acromion
help you to manage pain and improve your approximately a 4–6 week period.
Subacromial
bursa Collar bone strength and flexibility. A physiotherapist can You should carry on with the exercises
(clavicle)
Outline provide a variety of treatments, help you overleaf for at least 6–8 weeks to help
of joint understand your problem and get you back prevent symptoms returning.
capsule Shoulder
blade to your normal activities. If you have severe pain or your
Upper
arm bone (scapula) symptoms haven’t improved after
(humerus) Shoulder joint 2 weeks, contact your doctor.
(glenohumeral joint)