Shoulder Pain

Lots of people suffer from shoulder problems and these can be cause by everyday tasks such as sport or removing clothing awkwardly. Normal wear and tear can cause shoulder issues to flare-up from time to time. Most issues should problems settle down within 6 weeks, if they persist you should consult your GP.

Facts & Figures:

  • Shoulder problems rarely effect both shoulders.
  • 1% of all GP consultations are about shoulder problems.

When to get advice:

  • Pain that gets worse and worse
  • You can’t move your hand above your shoulder
  • You can’t move your arm at all
  • Hot, shooting, burning or stabbing pains lasting more than 1 week.
  • Shoulder has not improved after 6 weeks
  • If you have any concerns always seek medical advice

Move or rest?

First 24 hours

  • Try to gently move your shoulder every hour for about 10/20 seconds
  • Movement is key even if it’s only slowly to start with.
  • Rest your shoulder but try to avoid keeping it in one position for too long.

After 48 hours

  • Try and use your arms as normal but don’t overdo it! If you experience increased pain, stop and seek help.
  • Don’t lift anything or engage in extreme sports until you have good movement.
  • Gentle exercise can relieve pain

Check out the exercise in the tools sections