What are the causes of shoulder pain? And who is the specialist doctor in treating shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain causes

The shoulder is one of the most flexible and frequently used joints in our daily lives, so any pain in the shoulder can be very distressing and more painful than any other joint. In this article, we will review some of the possible causes of shoulder pain:

Muscle problems: There are four small muscles that contribute to normal shoulder movement, and when these muscles face certain problems, dysfunction occurs and causes shoulder pain.

Shoulder stiffness: Shoulder stiffness is a common medical condition that causes stiffness and limited movement in the shoulder, causing the patient to experience constant pain or pain in the shoulder joint when trying to bend the arm backwards. Shoulder stiffness can result from several medical conditions that affect the shoulders, such as tendonitis.

Shoulder dislocation: Shoulder dislocation is a possible cause of shoulder pain, usually occurring due to a fall on the shoulder or when receiving an injury in the area. Dislocation can be partial or complete of the joint, and the severity of the pain varies according to the size of the injury.

Collarbone fractures: A fracture in the collarbone may occur due to an accident or improper arm extension. Immediate medical care is required for this type of injury.

Shoulder pain as a sign of a heart attack: Shoulder pain on the left side may be one of the early signs of a heart attack. However, it is worth mentioning that heart attacks have many other symptoms, such as chest discomfort, sweating, and nausea.

A precise diagnosis of shoulder pain must be ensured by working with a doctor or healthcare professionals. Understanding the causes of shoulder pain can help determine the appropriate treatment and relieve pain.

What does shoulder pain indicate?

Shoulder pain can result from multiple causes, and here are some common reasons:

Stress and strain: Stress and strain can cause muscle contractions around the neck and shoulders, leading to pain.

Injuries: Injuries resulting from sports or accidents can lead to shoulder pain.

Arthritis: Arthritis, such as shoulder joint inflammation or bursitis, can lead to shoulder pain.

Heart diseases: In some cases, pain in the left shoulder may indicate a heart problem, such as angina.

Other issues: Such as nerve inflammation, disc herniation, tendon tears, tumors, pneumonia, or pleuritis.

Problems in other parts of the body: Sometimes, a problem in another part of the body, such as the neck or lungs, can cause pain in the shoulder area.

If you are concerned about shoulder pain, it is best to determine the cause by consulting a specialist doctor. The doctor may conduct diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the pain and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

When is Shoulder Pain Serious?

Many people suffer from shoulder pain and may wonder about the severity of this pain and whether it requires immediate medical attention. In this list, we will highlight some conditions in which shoulder pain is serious and when it is necessary to consult a doctor.

1. Acute Injury or Fracture: If you are experiencing severe shoulder pain due to an accident or direct injury, it may indicate a bone fracture or another internal injury. In such cases, it is important to visit a doctor immediately to assess the injury and guide you to the appropriate treatment.
2. Severe Injury: If you feel severe shoulder pain after a fall or another strong incident, there might be a tear in the ligaments or surrounding tissues. In this case, consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan.
3. Inability to Move the Shoulder: If shoulder pain completely prevents you from moving them freely, and you feel numbness or weakness, there may be a serious problem in the shoulders, such as a complete tear of a ligament or a muscle tear. See a doctor immediately to assess the condition and suggest the appropriate treatment.
4. Shoulder Pain Accompanied by Other Symptoms: If shoulder pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as high fever, severe distress, or difficulty breathing, it may indicate a serious health problem such as internal organ inflammation or the presence of a cancerous tumor. When these symptoms appear, it is imperative to consult a doctor immediately.
5. Chronic and Recurrent Shoulder Pain: If you suffer from long-lasting and recurrent shoulder pain, there may be a chronic disorder in the joint or a problem in the muscles or ligaments. It is advised to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

Shoulder pain can be serious in some cases. If you are experiencing severe pain, have suffered a severe injury, are unable to move the shoulders, feel accompanying symptoms, or suffer from chronic and recurrent pain, you should see a doctor to assess the condition and provide the appropriate treatment. Do not let the pain affect your daily life; seek the necessary medical help.

What Causes Pain Between the Shoulders?

Pain between the shoulders can result from a variety of causes, some related to muscles, bones, and joints, while others may be related to internal organs. Here are some possible causes:

1. Muscle Strain: This can result from tension, poor posture, or muscle strain.
2. Spinal Issues: Such as a slipped disc, arthritis, or injuries.
3. Heart Diseases: In some cases, pain between the shoulders may indicate a heart problem, such as angina or a heart attack.
4. Respiratory System Diseases: Such as pleurisy, pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism.
5. Digestive System Diseases: Such as gallbladder issues, gallbladder inflammation, stomach ulcers, or esophagitis.
6. Tumors: Whether benign or malignant, they may press on adjacent areas and cause pain.
7. Other Diseases: Such as arthritis, shingles, or pain resulting from a breast-related issue, especially in women.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain between the shoulders, or if you have other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, it is best to seek medical care immediately.

What is the cause of back shoulder pain?

Back shoulder pain is a common complaint experienced by many individuals. The pain in the back of the shoulder can be due to several different reasons. Here, we take a look at some common causes of back shoulder pain:

Muscle Strain and Tension: Ongoing stress and muscle tension can lead to pain in the back shoulder area. This may occur due to continuous movement of the joint, during sports activities, or using a computer for extended periods. It is advised to take breaks from repetitive activities and practice strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the shoulder.

Tendon Inflammation: Tendon inflammation could be one of the common reasons for back shoulder pain. Tendon inflammation can occur due to excessive use of the shoulder or incorrect movements. Treating tendon inflammation may require rest, applying ice to the affected area, and taking pain relievers.

Shoulder Joint Problems: Problems in the shoulder joint could be a cause of back shoulder pain. This could include instability of the joint or dislocation. Treating shoulder joint problems may require rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

Fractures and Injuries: A fracture in the shoulder or arm bone could be a possible cause of back shoulder pain. A fracture could occur due to a fall or sports-related accidents. If a fracture or injury is suspected, it is important to consult a doctor and receive appropriate treatment.

Internal Organ Issues: In some rare cases, back shoulder pain could result from problems in internal organs such as the liver, heart, gallbladder, stomach, or intestines. Patients may need to consult internal medicine specialists for diagnosis and treatment of the potential problem.

Does Vitamin D Deficiency Cause Shoulder Pain?

Vitamin D deficiency can cause pain in the shoulder and other parts of the body. Vitamin D is important for maintaining normal levels of calcium in the body, and calcium plays a vital role in muscle activity and health. When there is a deficiency in Vitamin D, there can be a decrease in calcium levels in the body, leading to muscle pain in areas such as the shoulder, hands, legs, and back.

Furthermore, Vitamin D deficiency can cause weak muscle contractions, difficulty in movement, and muscle tightness. This occurs because Vitamin D helps in the elimination of energy consumption byproducts and maintains calcium balance in the muscles.

Note that sitting for extended periods in front of a computer screen can also lead to shoulder and neck pain. However, it is important to note that low levels of Vitamin D may have an indirect effect on the overall appearance of these symptoms.

It is essential to ensure adequate levels of Vitamin D through short daily exposure to direct sunlight and consuming foods rich in this vitamin, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and foods fortified with Vitamin D.

In case of suspicion of Vitamin D deficiency, it is advisable to consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How to Get Rid of Shoulder Pain?

If you are suffering from shoulder pain, here are some suggestions that might help alleviate the pain:

1. Shoulder Rest: You may need to give your shoulder some time to rest, especially if the pain is due to strain or injury.
2. Applying Ice or Heat: Use ice packs to reduce swelling in the first 48 hours after the injury occurs. After 48 hours, you might find it beneficial to use heat packs to relieve pain and muscle spasms.
3. Stretching Exercises: Stretch the shoulder muscles regularly to increase their flexibility and strength.
4. Improving Body Posture: If you sit for long periods, ensure that you have a comfortable chair that supports your back and shoulders, and that the screen is at eye level.
5. Physical Therapy: The doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to teach you specific exercises that help strengthen the shoulder muscles and increase their flexibility.
6. Pain Relief Medication: Medications such as paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) may be helpful.
7. Avoiding Aggravating Activities: If there is a specific activity that causes you pain, try to avoid or modify it.
8. Massage Therapy: Massage may be beneficial in some cases to relieve muscle spasms and pain.
9. Medical Assessment: If the pain persists or is severe, you may need to consult a doctor for evaluation and appropriate guidance.

Does Stomach Inflammation Cause Shoulder Pain?

Many people experience pain in the right shoulder and may wonder if stomach inflammation could be the cause behind it. Stomach inflammation is a condition in which the stomach lining becomes inflamed, which can lead to various symptoms.

Although there is no direct link between stomach inflammation and shoulder pain, there may be some overlap between gastrointestinal symptoms and shoulder pain. The sensation of pain in the right shoulder may be a result of irritation of the nerves in the stomach and intestines, leading to the transfer of pain sensation to the shoulder.

When considering stomach inflammation as a possible cause of shoulder pain, individuals with stomach inflammation should determine whether the shoulder pain is associated with other digestive symptoms they are experiencing, such as nausea, vomiting, and digestive disorders.

It is also important to inquire about the presence of any other accompanying conditions, such as gallstones, which may cause pain in the right shoulder, as pain can transfer from the gallbladder to the shoulder. There may also be an overlap between stomach inflammation and gallstones, as stomach irritation can lead to the formation of gallstones or exacerbate symptoms associated with them.

Therefore, in the case of severe pain in the right shoulder accompanied by digestive symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, it is recommended to visit a doctor to confirm the possible cause of the symptoms. Individuals may need to undergo tests and examinations to identify the source of the shoulder pain and ensure that the condition is treated correctly.

Does anxiety cause pain between the shoulders?

Anxiety is a common emotional state that many people feel at times. Although anxiety can be a natural and temporary emotion, it can negatively affect the body, including the shoulders and neck. So, does anxiety really cause pain between the shoulders? Here we will take a look at this topic based on the data available online:

Muscle Tension: Muscle tension is one of the factors associated with anxiety. The area particularly affected by this tension is the shoulder and neck muscles. When a person is anxious, the body’s muscles tend to contract and tighten abnormally. This continuous tension can lead to pain in the shoulder and neck area.

Changes in Water Retention: Chronic anxiety conditions can lead to an increase in anxiety hormone levels in the body. These changes in hormones can cause water retention in the tissues surrounding the shoulders and neck. This, in turn, can lead to pain and swelling in that area.

Poor Body Posture: Chronic anxiety may lead to adopting incorrect body postures. A person may find themselves shrugging their shoulders or bending incorrectly while sitting or feeling tense. These bad postures can add extra pressure on the shoulder and neck muscles and cause pain.

Nerve Strain: Pain between the shoulders may result from pressure on the nerves. Anxiety can lead to tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, thus increasing the pressure on the nerves located in that area, causing pain.

Anxiety may be a contributing factor to the occurrence of pain between the shoulders, but it is important to remember that there are other factors that may also lead to this pain. For an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is advisable to consult a specialist doctor.

Remember that relaxation and regular exercise can contribute to reducing anxiety and pain in the shoulders and neck. Consult your doctor for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your condition.

What are the symptoms of scapular muscle inflammation?

Scapular muscle inflammation is a common and recurrent condition in the clinic of Dr. Amr Amal, a consultant orthopedic surgeon and joint specialist at Ain Shams University. When a person has scapular muscle inflammation, shoulder pain tops the list of symptoms they experience.

The scapula is surrounded by a complex network of tissues to allow easy movement and stability of the shoulder joint. Inflammation can result from many causes, such as overuse of shoulder muscles, incorrect postures, or injuries.

Common symptoms of scapular muscle inflammation include:

Shoulder Pain: Shoulder pain is one of the main symptoms of scapular muscle inflammation. The pain may be mild at times and more severe in other cases. Difficulty Lifting the Arm: Those with scapular muscle inflammation may have difficulty lifting their arm, and may experience stiffness or rigidity in the shoulder. Pain when Moving the Shoulder: Patients may feel mild pain, especially when attempting to move the affected shoulder.

The pain may increase after a period of rest or even after exercise, not during it. The severity of the symptoms varies from one case to another and depends on the severity and type of scapular muscle inflammation.

Who is the specialist doctor for treating shoulder pain?

Dr. Amr Amal is a consultant orthopedic surgeon and joint specialist at Ain Shams University. He is considered an expert in treating shoulder pain and injuries that occur in it. Dr. Amr Amal offers a variety of therapeutic methods to treat these injuries. He uses medication and injections as a means to alleviate pain and improve joint condition.

Dr. Amr Amal advises paying attention to the appropriate diet during the treatment period, as this helps boost immunity, reduce joint pain, and generally improve its condition.

Thanks to his expertise and specialization in the field of treating shoulder pain, Dr. Amr Amal is an excellent choice for those suffering from these injuries, as he provides relief and helps improve their quality of life.