What should you know about pain from shoulder to thumb?

Shoulder Pain that worsens when lifting the arm can occur with Rotator Cuff Tendinitis, Shoulder Impingement, a Rotator Cuff Tear or Calcific Tendinitis. Frozen Shoulder tends to restrict shoulder movement in several directions. Shoulder Osteoarthritis may cause stiffness and aching. Burning, electric pain, pins and needles or weakness travelling towards the thumb can fit Cervical Radiculopathy, which starts in the neck rather than the shoulder.

Keep the arm moving gently within comfort, but avoid heavy overhead work, forceful reaching and prolonged positions that increase symptoms. Support the arm when resting and vary desk or phone posture. Do not ignore loss of grip or repeated dropping of objects. An examination can compare neck and shoulder movement, strength, reflexes and sensation before treatment is chosen.

Seek emergency help for sudden arm weakness or numbness with facial drooping, speech trouble, severe chest discomfort, breathlessness or fainting. Seek prompt assessment after a fall, for a visibly deformed shoulder, inability to lift the arm, rapidly increasing weakness, or a cold or unusually pale hand. Persistent night pain or symptoms that do not settle also deserve review.

Does the pattern suggest the neck, shoulder or another part of the arm? Do I have measurable weakness or sensory change? Which movements should I modify? Would tests of the neck or shoulder change treatment? What symptoms mean I should seek urgent help?