Understand symptoms that affect reaching, lifting and sleep, and when to seek an assessment.
Why can a shoulder hurt?
Shoulder pain may arise from several structures, including tendons, joints or surrounding tissues. It can follow an injury or appear gradually. Stiffness, painful movement, weakness or discomfort at night can help a clinician understand the problem, but they do not identify a cause on their own.
When should you make an appointment?
Seek assessment if pain is worsening, affects normal activities or is not improving. Tell your clinician when symptoms began, whether you had an injury, which movements are difficult and what you have already tried.
When is urgent help needed?
Get urgent medical attention for sudden severe pain, inability to move the arm, a changed shoulder shape, major swelling, loss of feeling, or pain after a fall or accident. Shoulder or arm pain with chest pressure or shortness of breath needs emergency assessment.
What might treatment involve?
After an examination, your clinician may discuss activity changes, rehabilitation or medicines if suitable. Tests or specialist treatment may be considered depending on the findings. Avoid forcing painful movements or starting heavy exercises without advice.