Shoulder Pain in Women: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention

What is shoulder pain in women?

Shoulder pain is a common issue in women of all ages and can arise from a variety of causes, including overuse, injury, and underlying health conditions. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures can help manage and prevent shoulder pain effectively.

Symptoms of shoulder pain in women

The symptoms of shoulder pain can vary depending on the underlying cause, but common signs include:

• Pain or discomfort: 

  • This can range from a dull ache to sharp, intense pain in the shoulder joint or surrounding areas.

• Stiffness: 

  • Difficulty moving the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm or reaching behind.

• Swelling: 

  • Inflammation around the shoulder joint may cause swelling or tenderness.

• Weakness: 

  • A feeling of weakness in the shoulder, especially during everyday activities that require strength or endurance.

• Clicking or popping sounds: 

  • These sounds may occur when moving the shoulder and are often associated with joint or tendon issues.

• Reduced range of motion: 

  • Uncomfortable stiffness in your shoulders or a feeling of pain or restriction whenever you rotate or lift the arm.

• Radiating pain: 

  • Pain may spread to the neck, arm, or upper back, sometimes mimicking other conditions like nerve impingement. 

If you are experiencing sudden shoulder pain or if your chronic shoulder pain is getting worse over time, don’t hesitate to request an appointment with our specialists at Thomson Medical for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan and physical therapy.

Common causes of shoulder pain 

Sudden shoulder pain can arise from a variety of causes, often related to injuries, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions. Here are the most common causes:

• Rotator cuff injuries: 

  • Strains or tears in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder can lead to serious joint pain.

• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): 

  • Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes stiffness and limits movement.

• Bursitis: 

  • Shoulder bursitis happens due to inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint.

• Tendonitis: 

  • Tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendons, commonly caused by overuse or ageing.

• Osteoarthritis: 

  • Osteoarthritis is the degeneration of the shoulder joint over time due to wear and tear.

• Shoulder impingement syndrome: 

  • Shoulder impingement syndrome happens when your shoulder blade rubs or "impinges" on the tendons and muscles of the shoulder.

• Fractures or dislocations: 

  • Bone fractures or shoulder dislocations can be caused by trauma, falls, or accidents.

• Thoracic outlet syndrome: 

  • Compression of nerves or blood vessels in the upper chest and neck region, causing shoulder pain.

• Autoimmune diseases: 

  • Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can affect the shoulder joint.

• Posture-related issues: 

  • Poor posture, especially from long hours at a desk or using devices, can cause shoulder pain.

What are the treatments for shoulder pain?

Treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause but generally includes the following:

Rest and activity modification

Depending on the type of injury, the best treatment may be to simply rest the shoulder to prevent further damage while avoiding activities that worsen the pain. If necessary, you can take steps to further reduce strain on the shoulder, such as adjusting your posture or work setups.

Cold and heat therapy

Ice packs help reduce inflammation and numbs sharp pain, especially for acute injuries and joint pain. Heat therapy is often used for chronic pain as it helps relax tight muscles and improve blood flow.

Medications

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate mild to moderate chronic shoulder pain. Prescription medications may be needed for more severe pain or underlying conditions like arthritis.

Physical therapy

• Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve shoulder function and reduce pain.

• Range of motion exercises help prevent stiffness and improve mobility.

• Postural exercises focus on improving alignment to reduce strain on the shoulder.

Corticosteroid injections

These injections reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief for conditions like bursitis or tendonitis.

Surgery

Shoulder surgery may be necessary for severe cases like rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocations, or fractures. Common procedures include arthroscopy and shoulder replacement.

Prevention of shoulder pain in women

Here are some preventive measures that you can take to significantly reduce the risk of developing shoulder pain:

• Maintain good posture:

  • Proper posture while sitting, standing, and during activities can reduce strain on the shoulder muscles and joints.

• Strengthen shoulder muscles:

  • Engage in regular strength training to keep shoulder muscles and rotator cuff muscles strong and stable.

• Take frequent breaks:

  • If you have a job that involves repetitive shoulder movements or long hours at a desk, make sure to take regular breaks to move and stretch.

• Use proper lifting techniques:

  • To avoid severe injuries such as dislocated shoulders while heavy lifting, use proper techniques by lifting with your legs and keeping your core engaged.

• Avoid overuse:

  • When you work out, do not go straight for the heaviest weights. Gradually increase activity levels or intensity to avoid overworking the shoulder muscles and tendons.

• Stay active:

  • Regular physical activity helps maintain joint flexibility, strength, and overall health.

Although it may seem like a minor issue, chronic shoulder pain in women can be a sign of other, more serious medical problems. If the injury is severe enough to affect your daily activities and quality of life, request an appointment with our specialists at Thomson Medical.

FAQs 

What causes shoulder pain in women that radiates to the arm?

This is often due to issues like rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, or shoulder impingement. Nerve-related problems like thoracic outlet syndrome or cervical radiculopathy can also cause pain radiating down the arm. 

How do I know if my shoulder pain is serious?

You should seek medical attention if your shoulder pain is associated with severe swelling, numbness, weakness, or inability to move the arm, or if you have intense shoulder pain following a traumatic injury that makes it impossible to resume your regular activities.

Why do women experience frozen shoulders more often than men?

Women, especially those over 40, are more prone to frozen shoulders, possibly due to hormonal changes or a higher risk of conditions like diabetes, which is linked to this condition. 

Can shoulder pain be related to heart issues in women?

Yes, sometimes referred pain in the shoulder can be a sign of heart conditions, particularly in women. Heart attack symptoms can manifest as pain in the shoulder, arm, or jaw, especially if accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or nausea. 

Can stress cause shoulder pain in women?

Yes, stress and tension can cause muscle tightness, especially in the shoulder and neck area. This type of pain is often related to tension headaches or poor posture during stress. 

What can I do to relieve shoulder pain at home?

Rest, apply ice or heat, take OTC pain relievers, and gently stretch and move the shoulder to prevent stiffness. If pain persists, you should request an appointment to consult a medical professional.

When should I see a doctor for shoulder pain?

You should see a doctor if your pain is severe, persistent for more than a few weeks, associated with weakness, or if it follows an injury. If shoulder pain is accompanied by chest pain or other heart attack symptoms, seek emergency care.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Book an appointment with Thomson Medical today.