Shoulder (shoulder) – next to sciatica, it belongs to the so-called. root pain syndromes. These are degenerative changes of the spine in the cervical section, characterized by pain in the neck and shoulder with radiation to the forearm, less often to the hand, chest and back. The pain is usually aggravated by moving the head, during intense physical effort, during prolonged stay in the same position and in highly stressful situations. Usually, the disease affects older people, although it is not a rule.
Possible causes of the disease:
- Harmful effects of external factors – long-term, long-term hard physical work or requiring staying in the same position,
- Hormonal disorders in the body – under their influence, bone structure may change, e.g. in the case of osteoporosis,
- Degenerative changes of the cervical spine – such as: degeneration of the joints, degeneration of the intervertebral disc, neuralgia, discopathy, thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS).
How to recognize shoulder pain?
Symptoms accompanying the disease include:
- Annoying tension in the neck and nape muscles – this is one of the first, often underestimated symptoms of shoulder pain,
- Severe neck and shoulder pain – often appearing after waking up, for no apparent reason, and when moving the head, sneezing and coughing,
- Radiation in/in pain – on the hands, back – mainly around the shoulder blades, the front, upper part of the chest,
- Paresis of the upper limbs – obvious problems with moving them,
- Sensory disturbances in the hands – in the form of a tingling or burning sensation.
Typical pain associated with the disease is continuous, stinging and burning. Acute pain lasts from several days to up to four weeks. It happens that unexpectedly disappears on its own, which does not mean, however, that the problem has been solved. If you notice symptoms of shoulder pain, you should immediately contact an orthopedist or neurologist, as an untreated condition can even lead to muscle atrophy. The specialist will select the appropriate treatment method that will definitely help.
recommendations:
In addition to treatment, in order to control shoulder pain, it is very important to follow the following recommendations:
- Avoid heavy physical exertion!
- Do not drive unless absolutely necessary!
- Do not make sudden, jerky head movements!
- Limit physical activity as much as possible! Try to find someone who will temporarily relieve you of everyday duties.
- Control your posture! Strictly follow the recommendations of the specialist. This is very important, because the wrong posture can reduce the progress in treatment.
- Do the recommended exercises diligently! It is likely that your doctor or therapist will advise you to do stretching exercises at home.
- Invest in an orthopedic pillow. Thanks to it, the correct position of the head and neck will also be ensured during sleep.