15 Causes of Shoulder and Arm Pain

Shoulder discomfort is quite common. As the most flexible joints in your body, shoulders are particularly susceptible to injury and degenerative issues. Shoulder pain can extend down to your arm, while discomfort from a condition in your upper arm may be felt around the shoulder area. You might be curious about the most frequent sources of pain in your right shoulder and arm.

The most common cause of this discomfort is issues with the rotator cuff. Many of these problems also lead to pain in the left shoulder. However, specific causes of left shoulder pain may be linked to organs and can result in referred pain.

Continue reading to learn more about rotator cuff disorders and other potential reasons for experiencing pain in your right shoulder and arm.
 

Causes for discomfort in your right shoulder and arm

Here are 15 potential reasons for discomfort in your right shoulder and arm:

1. Rotator cuff disease

The rotator cuff consists of muscles and tendons that secure the shoulder socket's upper arm bone (humerus). The tissues of the rotator cuff can become diseased from overuse or injury, potentially leading to:

• Tendinitis which is the irritation and inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons.
• Bursitis, where the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that allows the rotator cuff to move freely, becomes inflamed.
• Impingement occurs when a part of the shoulder blade, known as the acromion, rubs against the rotator cuff tissues, causing swelling and discomfort.

2. Torn rotator cuff

This occurs when one or more of the rotator cuff tendons tear. Tears can be partial or complete and occur from an injury or frequently due to gradual wear over time.

3. Shoulder dislocation

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the top of your humerus pops out of the shoulder socket. This often results from sports injuries, car accidents, and falls.

4. Broken collarbone

A broken collarbone occurs when there is a fracture in your collarbone (clavicle). The collarbone connects your shoulder to your breastbone (sternum), with many fractures resulting from falls or vehicular accidents.

5. Upper arm fracture

This happens when there is a break in your humerus. Breaks typically occur near the shoulder or along the middle of the bone, similar to broken collarbones, often due to falls or car accidents.

6. Frozen shoulder

A frozen shoulder causes stiffness and pain in your shoulder. Inflammation is believed to play a role. The condition often improves gradually without intervention. Watch this video to manage your frozen shoulder better. 

7. Calcific tendinitis

Calcific tendinitis involves a buildup of calcium deposits in or around your rotator cuff, resulting in symptoms akin to those of a frozen shoulder. The precise cause remains unknown.

8. Shoulder sprain

A shoulder sprain results from the stretching or tearing of ligaments in your shoulder. This type of injury can affect any of the shoulder's ligaments and typically arises from sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

9. Separated shoulder

A separated shoulder occurs from an injury to the ligaments that attach your shoulder to the collarbone, which can lead to stretching or complete tearing of these ligaments.

10. Shoulder osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis refers to the wear and tear of joint tissues. While it is less common than arthritis in the knees or hips, shoulder arthritis can significantly affect those who suffer from it.

11. Shoulder rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

RA is a condition in which the immune system attacks the joints. Approximately 1.5 years after the condition's onset, individuals with RA may experience a notable decline in shoulder function.

12. Cervical radiculopathy 

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck is pinched as it exits the spinal cord. This condition can result from degeneration, herniated discs, or bone spurs.

13. Brachial neuritis

Brachial neuritis occurs when the brachial nerve, which controls the shoulder and arm, becomes inflamed. The exact cause remains unclear. Approximately 60 per cent of cases affect the dominant side of the body.

14. Brachial plexus

A brachial plexus injury damages the nerves that govern arm and hand movements. These nerves can be harmed by falls and accidents.

15. Thoracic outlet syndrome

TOS encompasses a range of disorders that occur when the nerves or blood vessels near the collarbone and the first rib are compressed. It can result from injuries or repetitive activities.

If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, don’t wait—search for “physiotherapy near me” today and book a consultation.
 

Signs and symptoms for discomfort in your right shoulder and arm

Along with pain, you might also notice some of the following signs in or near your right shoulder and arm:  

1. Pain that arises when:  

• moving your right shoulder or arm, such as when lifting, lowering, or rotating your right arm  
• lying down on your right side  
• reaching for or lifting items using your right arm  
• swelling  
• stiffness  
• bruising  
• sensitivity  
• decreased range of motion  
• trouble performing daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and cooking  
• a sensation of weakness in the right shoulder, arm, or both  
• a tingling or "pins and needles" feeling in your right hand or fingers  
• a crackling or grinding sound in your right shoulder while moving your right arm  
• a noticeable deformity  

2. Right shoulder and arm pain and heart attacks  

You may believe that heart attack pain only radiates to the left shoulder and arm. However, the Indian Heart Association indicates that pain from a heart attack can also manifest in the shoulders and one or both arms.  

• If you or someone nearby experiences right shoulder and arm pain and any of these symptoms, please call for emergency assistance.  
• chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes  
• pain in the jaw, neck, or back  
• shortness of breath  
• feeling faint  
• breaking out in a cold sweat  
• nausea or vomiting  
   

Treatment Options  

Let's explore the treatment methods for right shoulder and arm pain.  

If a visit to the doctor is necessary  

When discussing right shoulder and arm pain with your doctor, they may suggest the following based on how severe your condition is.   

1. Physiotherapy: Your doctor might recommend exercises designed to help you restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. In some situations, they may also endorse physical therapy.  If you want a physiotherapist near me in Mumbai, visit TruePal now.

2. Immobilisation: In certain instances, restricting movement in your shoulder or arm can aid healing. A sling, brace, or cast is commonly used to implement this. Your doctor will inform you when it is appropriate to remove it.  

3. Corticosteroid injections: Your doctor can inject this medication into the affected area to help reduce inflammation.  

4. Prescription medications: Prescription pain relievers may be provided for severe pain. Oral corticosteroids can help relieve inflammation. If you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), your doctor will most likely prescribe a disease-modifying drug.  

5. Surgery: Surgery may be recommended when other treatments have not proven effective or if the damage is significant. The specific procedure will depend on the underlying cause of your condition.  
 

Home Treatments  

If your right shoulder and arm pain is mild to moderate, try the following home remedies before consulting your physician.  

Utilise the R.I.C.E. method: R.I.C.E. can be beneficial shortly after an injury to alleviate symptoms and foster recovery. It consists of:  

1. Rest: Cease any activities that exacerbate pain or irritation.  

2. Ice: Apply an ice pack or cool compress to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes multiple times daily.  

3. Compression: Wrap or bandage the area to assist in reducing swelling.  

4. Elevation: Aim to elevate your right shoulder and arm to the level of your heart.  

5. Take over-the-counter (OTC) medications: Various OTC medications can help mitigate symptoms like pain and swelling. Options include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil).  

6. Try gentle stretches: Regular, gentle stretching can enhance flexibility and range of motion. In the next section, we will discuss some basic exercises you can try.  

7. Maintain good posture: Poor posture can strain your shoulder and arm tissues.  
 

Conclusion

TruePal offers a customised program to manage shoulder discomfort. With our innovative facilities and thorough evaluations, our in-house medical professionals can provide precise insights into your condition. 

Our physiotherapists can design appropriate routines to enhance your shoulder's mobility, flexibility, and strength. 

Research has indicated that most shoulder pain can be relieved or resolved without medications when an appropriate physiotherapy approach is taken. 

We understand that each patient, as well as their treatment, is distinct in characteristics and situations. Our specialists have created a personalised treatment program just for you. Don't hesitate to contact us today and allow us to formulate a complete plan to reduce your shoulder pain, boost mobility, and improve your quality of life.
 

FAQs

1. What could be the implication of your shoulder and arm pain? 

It often suggests that your shoulders are under strain, affecting the tendons and joints in that area. It may indicate a need for exercise, dietary changes, or medical assessment due to underlying health issues.

2. What are some common reasons for shoulder and upper arm pain? 

Potential causes include tendon tears, joint degeneration, arthritis, heart conditions, and nerve damage.

3. What might cause right shoulder pain that extends down the arm?

 Right shoulder pain that radiates down the arm can result from various issues, including rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, cervical radiculopathy, shoulder bursitis, and osteoarthritis. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment strategy.