Your Shoulder

What causes shoulder pain?

Pain in your shoulder can come from the joint itself, the bones, muscles, ligaments, joint capsule, the bicep tendon or the rotator cuff tendons. Less commonly, it can also be caused by body parts away from the shoulder, such as the neck or internal organs, known as ‘referred pain’.

In many cases, new problems, or flare-ups of long-standing shoulder problems, should begin to settle within 6 weeks without the need to see a healthcare professional.

Shoulder problems can cause a range of symptoms including pain, stiffness and weakness. Shoulder problems are common and are often caused by simple things like:

• taking off your coat
• lifting something awkwardly
• taking part in sport
• a trip, injury or fall (trauma)

As you get older, normal age-related (degenerative) changes occur and these can lower the ability of the shoulder to tolerate the demands placed upon it. These changes may cause your shoulder pain to get worse now and again for no obvious reason.

General advice

Keeping active is an essential part of your recovery and is the single best thing you can do for your health.

Being physically active can:

• maintain your current levels of fitness – even if you must modify what you normally do, any activity is better than none
• keep your other muscles and joints strong and flexible
• prevent a recurrence of the problem
• help you aim for a healthy body weight

You should avoid sports or heavy lifting until you have less discomfort and good movement. Remember to warm up fully before you start sporting activities and consider seeking advice about returning to sport.

Below are links to more information about common conditions affecting the shoulder. Click on the image that best represents the area you have symptoms for more details.