Shoulder Pain: Causes and Home Remedies for Relief

Q: Shoulder Pain: Causes and Home Remedies for Relief

Dear Miss Anonymous： <br>1. <br>The body's temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus in the brain, typically maintaining a temperature around 37°C. <br>Even in extreme heat or cold environments, humans strive to maintain a normal body temperature. <br>However, when there is an

Shoulder pain?

Doctor, I have a question: Recently, I've been feeling like my body temperature is high, so I don't turn on the air conditioning at night because it makes me feel worse (but I don't have a fever; I've checked with an ear thermometer and my temperature is around 36°C).
I have a slight headache and a little dizziness.
I tried gua sha, which helped a bit, but I'm still feeling uncomfortable.
What could be the reason for this? Is it heat exhaustion or something else?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/21

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Miss Anonymous:
1.
The body's temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus in the brain, typically maintaining a temperature around 37°C.
Even in extreme heat or cold environments, humans strive to maintain a normal body temperature.
However, when there is an issue within the body, the hypothalamus resets the temperature.
An increase in body temperature is referred to as a fever.

2.
There are many causes of fever, with over half stemming from infections, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, and rickettsiae.
In fact, fever itself is a protective response of the body, often making it more difficult for pathogens to survive.
This means that fever can enhance the immune function of the body, increasing the activity of phagocytic cells to help eliminate certain bacteria, viruses, and harmful substances; it also enhances the liver's detoxification capabilities.
However, there are other causes of fever, such as autoimmune diseases, hormonal imbalances, drug reactions, and cancers (such as lung cancer, liver cancer, kidney cancer, lymphoma, and leukemia).
Sometimes, the cause of a fever can be elusive, lasting more than two weeks, which is clinically referred to as fever of unknown origin, posing significant challenges for both patients and clinicians.

3.
It is recommended that you first discuss this with your family physician before making any decisions; alternatively, you may seek care from an infectious disease specialist at a regional hospital or higher.

Reply Date: 2021/07/21

More Info

Shoulder pain can arise from a variety of causes, and understanding these can help in managing the discomfort effectively. In your case, it seems you are experiencing not only shoulder pain but also some systemic symptoms like a feeling of elevated body temperature, headaches, and dizziness. Let's break down the potential causes and home remedies for relief.

Causes of Shoulder Pain
1. Muscle Strain or Sprain: Overuse or injury to the shoulder muscles can lead to pain. This is common in individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities or heavy lifting.

2. Rotator Cuff Injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Injuries can occur due to acute trauma (like a fall) or chronic wear and tear, leading to pain and limited range of motion.

3. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder can cause pain, especially when lifting the arm. This is often seen in athletes or those who perform repetitive overhead motions.

4. Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis can affect the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

5. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the shoulder can be referred from other areas, such as the neck or even the heart. Conditions like cervical radiculopathy or cardiac issues can manifest as shoulder pain.

6. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues) can cause pain and swelling in the shoulder.

Home Remedies for Relief
1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Giving your shoulder time to heal is crucial.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

3. Heat Therapy: After the initial inflammation has decreased, applying heat can help relax and loosen tissues and stimulate blood flow to the area.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

5. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore mobility and strength to the shoulder. Consult a physical therapist for a tailored exercise program.

6. Posture Correction: Maintaining good posture can alleviate shoulder pain, especially if it is related to muscle strain or tension.

7. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support overall health and recovery.

Addressing Systemic Symptoms
Regarding your symptoms of feeling hot, headaches, and dizziness, these could be indicative of several issues:
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can lead to headaches and a feeling of warmth.

- Heat Exhaustion: If you have been exposed to high temperatures, even without a fever, your body might be reacting to heat stress.

- Infection or Inflammation: Sometimes, underlying infections can cause systemic symptoms without a significant fever.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including blood tests if necessary, to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, shoulder pain can stem from various causes, and home remedies can provide relief. However, if you experience systemic symptoms like persistent headaches and dizziness, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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