[54F] With severe shoulder pain affecting sleep and daily activities

Patient Description

A 54-year-old female reports experiencing sharp shoulder pain on the outside edge of her shoulder for the past two days. The pain has gradually worsened and is now severe, rated as a 9 out of 10. It is affecting her sleep and daily activities, such as lifting objects or reaching overhead. The pain gets worse when she lays down. She has not experienced any numbness, tingling, or weakness in her arm or hand, and there is no swelling or redness around her shoulder. She has not had any recent injuries or surgeries to her shoulder. She does not smoke or use any recreational drugs other than alcohol, which she consumes three days a week. She has not tried any treatments or medications for her shoulder pain yet. Additionally, she has a balanced diet, is currently in menopause, and has no pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses. She is allergic to clams but has no other known allergies or adverse reactions to medications, and she is not currently taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your shoulder pain:

  • Rotator Cuff Injury: This is a common cause of shoulder pain, especially if the pain worsens with movement and is sharp. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Injuries can occur from overuse, sleeping in an awkward position, or sudden movements.

    • Treatment: Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Physical therapy exercises may also be recommended to strengthen the shoulder muscles.

  • Shoulder Impingement: This occurs when the shoulder muscles are pinched during movement, causing pain and difficulty lifting the arm.

    • Treatment: Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy may also be beneficial.

  • Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It often worsens over time and can limit your range of motion.

    • Treatment: Physical therapy is the main treatment to improve range of motion. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can also help manage symptoms.

  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint) can cause sharp pain, especially when lying down or moving the shoulder.

    • Treatment: Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your shoulder pain. Give your shoulder time to heal.
  2. Ice: Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce pain and inflammation.
  3. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage pain.
  4. Gentle Stretching: Perform gentle shoulder stretches to maintain range of motion. Avoid any movements that cause pain.
  5. Sleep Position: Try sleeping on your back or the opposite side of the affected shoulder. Use pillows to support your arm and shoulder.
  6. Journal Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe Pain: If your pain becomes unbearable or does not improve with rest and over-the-counter medications.
  • Swelling or Redness: If you notice significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the shoulder.
  • Numbness or Tingling: If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand.
  • Limited Range of Motion: If you are unable to move your shoulder or arm.
  • Fever or Chills: If you develop a fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.

Remember, while these tips can help manage your symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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2 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are common causes of sharp shoulder pain without recent injury?

Common causes of sharp shoulder pain without recent injury include rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, frozen shoulder, and bursitis. These conditions can result from overuse, awkward sleeping positions, or sudden movements.

How can I manage shoulder pain at home before seeing a doctor?

To manage shoulder pain at home, you can rest the shoulder, apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, perform gentle stretching exercises, and adjust your sleep position to avoid pressure on the affected shoulder.

When should I seek medical attention for shoulder pain?

You should seek medical attention if your shoulder pain becomes unbearable, does not improve with rest and over-the-counter medications, if you notice significant swelling, redness, or warmth, if you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand, if you have a limited range of motion, or if you develop a fever or chills.

What are the differences between rotator cuff injury and shoulder impingement?

A rotator cuff injury typically involves damage to the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder, often causing pain with movement. Shoulder impingement occurs when shoulder muscles are pinched during movement, leading to pain and difficulty lifting the arm. Both conditions can cause similar symptoms, but the underlying causes and specific treatments may differ.

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