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UNDERSTAND PAIN

Understanding Shoulder Pain

Sometimes we don’t realize how much we rely on our shoulders until we can’t use one due to pain. Understanding your shoulder pain can help you find relief and help your shoulder get back to doing all the things you need it to do.

WHAT IS SHOULDER PAIN AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

Here's the crazy thing about the shoulder — it’s the most moveable joint in the body, but also one of the most unstable. This is why so many people experience shoulder pain at some point.

The shoulder joint is highly dependent on the surrounding muscles and ligaments to hold it in place. As a result, it’s easy to experience sprains, strains, dislocations, separations, tendinitis, torn rotator cuffs and fractures — all potential causes of shoulder pain. Remember to see your doctor first before you begin any treatment or if your pain gets worse or persists.

"It's the most moveable joint in the body, but also one of the most unstable."

HOW CAN I GET RELIEF FROM SHOULDER PAIN?

The key to relieving shoulder pain is to get on top of it right away. The good news is that shoulder pain can sometimes be treated at home with methods like these:

an illustrated bottle of Aleve® inside a yellow circle
Over-the-counter medications

ALEVE® is one option that can help relieve pain when used as directed. Just make sure you always check with your doctor before taking any medication.

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Rest

Simply put, try to avoid moving your shoulder in a way that makes it feel worse.

ice and compression can help with swelling
Ice

Applying ice for 15 to 20 minutes a day can help relieve pain.

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Supporting therapies

See what else you can do to complement your treatment and relieve shoulder pain.

TIPS YOU CAN USE RIGHT NOW

Give pain the cold shoulder

Tip 1 of 3

Applying ice to your shoulder when you start feeling pain can help reduce inflammation, provide relief and add to a speedy recovery. First, put the ice in a leak-proof plastic bag and wrap the bag in cloth, since putting ice directly on your skin can be painful. Then, alternate between applying the ice for 15 minutes and removing it for 15 minutes. Do this 3-4 times a day for 2-3 days.

Give 'em a break

Tip 2 of 3

Shoulders do a lot of hard work, and when you’re in pain, it can feel like they’re working overtime. Rest your shoulders as much as you can by using arm rests on chairs and putting your hands in your pockets. If your rotator cuff is the problem, try keeping your elbows at your sides.

Dig in

Tip 3 of 3

Rub against the grain at the most painful spot on the shoulder. Do this for about a minute a few times a day to help alleviate pain and swelling. Inside tips: If you find this uncomfortable, ice beforehand to numb the area. Also, if your pain spot is hard to reach, ask a family member to do the massage, or visit a massage professional.

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