What causes shoulder pain?

Pain at the front or side of the shoulder that worsens with lifting may involve the rotator cuff or the space around it. Pain on top of the shoulder can follow an AC joint injury or irritation. Deep pain with stiffness may fit shoulder osteoarthritis, while burning pain, tingling, or symptoms traveling below the elbow can point toward a neck nerve source. A fall, sudden pull, repetitive overhead work, and reduced conditioning can each affect the shoulder differently. The same symptom can have more than one contributor, so location, movement, strength, and the timing of pain matter.

Reduce the movement that clearly aggravates symptoms without keeping the arm completely still. Gentle, comfortable motion can help prevent added stiffness. Arrange an evaluation if pain persists, interrupts sleep, or makes reaching and dressing difficult. Depending on the cause, care may include physiotherapy, a cortisone injection, or another targeted treatment. Shockwave therapy is relevant only for selected tendon-related problems after assessment. Explore Shoulder Pain, Rotator Cuff Tendinitis, Shoulder Impingement, or AC Joint Injury for condition-specific information.

Get urgent help after major trauma, a visible deformity, sudden inability to lift the arm, or new numbness with a cold or discoloured hand. Seek prompt care for fever with a hot, swollen shoulder, chest pressure, breathlessness, sweating, or pain spreading to the jaw or arm. A routine appointment is appropriate for persistent or recurring pain.

Where does the pain seem to originate? Which movements should I pause or modify? Do I need an examination or imaging? Would physiotherapy, an injection, or another treatment fit the suspected cause?