What should you know about shoulder and muscle pain in the arm?

Pain with reaching overhead or behind the back can occur with rotator cuff tendinitis, calcific tendinitis or shoulder impingement. Stiffness in several directions is more suggestive of a restricted shoulder joint such as frozen shoulder. Neck pain with electric, burning or tingling symptoms may fit cervical radiculopathy. A sudden injury followed by inability to lift the arm needs assessment for a tendon tear. These patterns guide examination; they do not confirm a diagnosis at home.

Reduce movements that sharply increase pain, but avoid keeping the shoulder completely still for long periods unless instructed. Support the arm during rest, use a comfortable position for sleep, and try gentle range-of-motion movements within tolerance. A clinician may recommend physiotherapy, medication or imaging after checking the neck, shoulder and nerves. Note whether pain follows lifting, neck movement, weakness or night-time pressure.

Seek emergency help for shoulder or arm pain with chest pressure, breathlessness, sweating, faintness or nausea. Get urgent assessment for a cold or pale arm, major swelling, new severe weakness, loss of sensation, fever, or pain after a significant injury. Arrange a clinical review for persistent pain, worsening night pain or declining ability to dress, reach or lift.

Ask whether the neck or shoulder is the likely source, which movements to practise, whether you need imaging, and what weakness or sensory changes should trigger earlier review.