Shoulder pain is a common issue that many people face, and it can be caused by various factors, including overuse, injuries, and medical conditions. Sometimes, the pain goes away on its own or with simple home remedies like applying heat or ice. However, in other cases, shoulder pain may indicate a more serious issue that requires medical attention. Knowing when your shoulder pain is serious is crucial in determining the best course of treatment. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the various types of shoulder pain and how to identify when the pain is severe.
Types of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can fall into three main categories: acute, chronic, and referred.
- Acute pain occurs suddenly and can be caused by an injury, such as a dislocated shoulder or broken bone.
- Chronic pain is long-lasting and can be the result of overuse or a medical condition like arthritis.
- Referred pain is felt in the shoulder but is caused by an issue in another part of the body, such as the neck.
Severe Shoulder Pain Symptoms
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:
- Intense pain that lasts longer than a few days
- Pain that gets worse at night or interferes with sleep
- Difficulty moving the affected shoulder
- A popping or grinding sensation when moving the shoulder
- Swelling or warmth in the affected area
- Numbness or tingling in the arm, especially if it extends down to the fingers
- Signs of an infection, such as fever, redness, or pus.
When to See a Chiropractor
If you are experiencing less severe or chronic shoulder pain, a chiropractor may be able to help. Seeing a chiropractor can be beneficial if your shoulder pain is caused by a misalignment or muscle tension. A chiropractor can also recommend exercises or stretches that can help relieve pain and restore mobility.
When to See a Physiotherapist
Physiotherapy may be a better option if your shoulder pain is due to an injury or medical condition. A physiotherapist can assess your condition and recommend exercises or stretches tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, they may use modalities such as massage, cupping, and dry needling to relieve pain and improve shoulder mobility.
Prevention and Self-Care for Shoulder Pain
Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent shoulder pain, you should:
- Maintain good posture
- Avoid repetitive movements when possible
- Exercise regularly to strengthen the muscles around your shoulders
- Use proper techniques when lifting heavy objects
- Get enough rest and sleep.
In cases of less severe shoulder pain, you can try self-care measures like:
- Applying heat or cold to the affected area
- Taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen
- Resting the affected shoulder
- Doing gentle shoulder stretches and exercises
Shoulder pain is not something to be taken lightly. It can range from mild to severe and can be caused by various factors. Knowing when your shoulder pain is severe is critical in determining the best course of treatment. If you’re experiencing severe shoulder pain, seek medical attention right away. However, if your shoulder pain is less severe, a chiropractor or physiotherapist may be able to help. Always remember to practice prevention and self-care measures to prevent shoulder pain from occurring.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
