Shoulder and arm pain can be debilitating, affecting your posture and daily activities. This pain can be referred pain from a herniated cervical disc or due to a muscle or tendon strain around your shoulder. Additional causes include a shoulder subluxation and burner syndrome. Treatment varies but may include rest, ice and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS. If pain worsens or persists, consult your physician.
Muscle or Tendon Strain
A muscle or tendon strain of your upper arm and shoulder muscles can lead to pain. Muscles prone to injury include your rotator cuff muscles, deltoid muscles, and biceps and triceps. The tendons of these muscles are also vulnerable to tears, especially if you previously suffered from tendinitis. Treatment includes rest, ice, compression and NSAIDS such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation. For a complete rupture of a muscle or tendon, surgery is necessary. Additional symptoms of a complete rupture include significant loss of muscle function and muscle deformity, according to the Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Herniated Cervical Disc
According to the North American Spine Society, a ruptured or herniated disc is when the "gel-like" center is pushed outside of the disc. A herniated cervical disc compresses nerves, which can impair shoulder and arm function. Symptoms include weakness, numbness and pain from your neck down into your arm. Symptoms may dissipate without treatment. However a neck collar, rest, NSAIDS and physical therapy may reduce symptoms more quickly. Epidural injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation of the nerve as well. Surgery to remove part of the disc, also called a discectomy, is recommended for severe cases.
Shoulder Subluxation
A shoulder subluxation is a temporary dislocation of your shoulder. A fall or forceful movement can cause a subluxation of your shoulder, especially if you already have shoulder instability. Muscle weakness and numbness may accompany shoulder and arm pain. Avoid painful activities; ice in 20-minute increments and take ibuprofen to alleviate symptoms. Perform shoulder strengthening exercises such as shoulder extension with a resistance band to further improve symptoms and prevent future subluxations. If you suffer from chronic shoulder subluxations and instability, surgery may be necessary to manage symptoms. Untreated shoulder subluxations can lead to arthritis and labrum tears, which could cause additional shoulder pain.
Burner Syndrome
Burner syndrome may also be referred to as a "burner" or "stinger" and is when your brachial plexus is overstretched or compressed. The brachial plexus is a set of nerves that run from your neck down into your upper arm. A direct hit or forceful movement of the head and neck can lead to burner syndrome. Pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in your shoulder and arm may be experienced for only a few minutes or for several weeks. For treatment, follow the acronym R.I.C.E, which stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. A sling may help elevate your arm and prevent any painful movements. Strength exercises such as seated row and appropriate protective gear help prevent future injury.
