With optimal mobility and stability, your upper body joints allow you to perform everyday tasks without discomfort. Athletic performance depends on the health of many body parts, including your back, shoulders and arms. Joint pain is symptomatic of problems with joint functioning. From a mild discomfort to a severe pain, pain is a sign that should not be ignored.
Function
References to pain in your upper body are typically classified by the affected joint. Joints are where bones meet. Muscles originate from one bone, cross over a joint and insert into another bone. Tendons connect muscles to bones and ligaments connect one bone to another bone. These connections interact in the joint cavity where sacs of fluid and cartilage lubricate and pad the area. Muscles move the bones, affecting the joint area. Optimal functioning joints are both stable and mobile. Pain may be attributed to problems with joint function.
Types
Pain exists in many forms and levels. Muscle pain is a dull ache or soreness that is usually a result of strain or a pull caused by high exertion levels. This type of soreness typically lasts 24 to 48 hours after a workout. Joint pain may be the result of problems in the specific area. A burning pain may be due to an inflammation of affected areas. Sharp pain with movement may be due to stability problems such as dislocations. Pain with tingling sensations may signal nerve problems.
Causes
Your shoulder joint is the most mobile joint allowing the largest range of motion in your body. As a result, it is highly susceptible to injury. Typical causes of pain are excessive repetitive movements such as throwing a ball or swimming. Excessive movements place wear and tear on the joint. Improper body mechanics with athletic or everyday tasks may cause slight tears and dislocations of the connective tissue in the joint area. Blunt force trauma due to contact sports or accidents or falls may result in injuries causing pain to the affected area. Your back has limited motion compared to your shoulder but is involved in all movements. In addition, postural problems and muscle weakness lead to back pain. Your elbows and wrists also have limited movement but can be affected by degeneration of the joint caused by repetitive movement as well as blunt trauma to the area, resulting in pain.
Prevention
Pain prevention can be attributed to joint health. Many factors contribute to improving joint health. Improved posture and alignment will diminish spinal problems leading to back pain. Increases in muscular strength and endurance will improve joint stability. Proper body mechanics with movement will prevent wear and tear on connective tissues surrounding a joint. Flexibility training will improve the range of motion of the joint area.
Treatment
Despite preventative efforts, pain and discomfort often occur in your back, shoulder and arms. Treatments for specific ailments are based on the severity of the problem. Mild strains and inflammation may be treated with ice, heat, rest and massage. More serious problems may require immobilizing the affected area. Severe problems may lead to surgery and rehabilitation.
References
- "Book of Body Maintenance and Repair"; American Physical Therapy Association; 1999
- Sports Injury Clinic: Shoulder Injuries and Shoulder Pain
- Medline Plus: Shoulder Pain
