Shoulder Pain: Causes, Care, and When to See a Doctor - Orthopedics

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Shoulder pain can be a significant issue, especially when it interferes with daily activities and sleep. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing pain that radiates from your shoulder down to your arm, particularly when you move or try to get out of bed. This type of pain can be indicative of several underlying conditions, and understanding the potential causes can help you determine the best course of action for treatment and care.


Possible Causes of Shoulder Pain
1. Rotator Cuff Injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Injuries or tears in this area can cause pain, especially when lifting the arm or during certain movements.

2. Shoulder Impingement: This occurs when the shoulder blade puts pressure on the underlying soft tissues when the arm is lifted. It can lead to pain and limited range of motion.

3. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder can cause pain, particularly during movement. This is often due to repetitive use, which seems likely given your activities with sewing and ironing.

4. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, which can severely limit mobility. It often develops gradually and can be exacerbated by inactivity.

5. Cervical Radiculopathy: Sometimes, pain in the shoulder can originate from issues in the neck, such as herniated discs or nerve compression, leading to radiating pain down the arm.

6. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues, can also cause shoulder pain.


When to See a Doctor
Given that your pain is persistent and affects your ability to perform daily tasks, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You can start with a general practitioner or an orthopedic specialist who focuses on musculoskeletal issues. If necessary, they may refer you to a physical therapist or a rheumatologist for further evaluation and treatment.


Recommended Care and Management
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. This may involve modifying how you perform daily tasks, especially those that require overhead movements.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance range of motion. They can also teach you proper body mechanics to prevent further injury.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can help relax and loosen tissues and stimulate blood flow to the area. Cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain.

5. Ergonomic Adjustments: Since you mentioned that you do a lot of sewing and ironing, consider adjusting your workspace to ensure that you maintain good posture and reduce strain on your shoulder.

6. Regular Exercise: Engage in low-impact activities that do not aggravate your shoulder pain, such as walking or swimming. Strengthening exercises for the shoulder and upper back can also be beneficial.


Conclusion
In summary, shoulder pain can stem from various causes, and your symptoms suggest that it may be related to repetitive strain or a specific injury. Given the impact on your daily life, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough assessment, potentially including imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs, to determine the exact cause of your pain and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help you return to your normal activities more quickly.