THE main shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint; this is because the ball-shaped upper arm bone fits into a cup-like depression of the top part of the shoulder blade bone. These so called ball-and –socket joints give the most movement of all the different types of joints in the body.
The shoulder being the body’s most mobile joint is also vulnerable to problems and pain. Some shoulder problems may be part of a general condition such as rheumatoid arthritis which affects the shoulders than other joints, and the consequence of previous and present shoulder injuries, other possible causes of shoulder pain are inflammation or damage to the tendons and muscles around the shoulders, tension in the muscles between the neck and shoulders, inflammation in the soft tissue of the sac or bursa, and damage to the bones and cartilage.
Although shoulder pain isn’t always caused by a problem in the shoulder joint, like neck pains that affects and actually felt in the shoulders, and unless caused by a traumatic injury or the experience of sudden and continuing pain there is no need to see your doctor straight away. However, if pain does not improve in about two weeks you should see a doctor or a physiotherapist for more complex problems.
On the other hand, there are ways you can help yourself to relieve or prevent shoulder pain. Most likely people want the easy way to relieve pain and resort to taking in painkillers but should seek medical advice. Shoulder pain due to a recent injury that is inflamed can be relieved by the use of an ice pack. Heat pack can also help to relieve most other types of shoulder pain particularly if the muscles feel sore and tense.
Posture on the other hand worsens shoulder pain especially if you have poor posture while working sitting down or lying down to sleep. This can make the shoulders becoming rounded and slouching, changing positions frequently and sitting in a supported upright position can prove helpful.
Generally it is best to carry out your normal activities, but don’t overdo it, pacing yourself and gradually doing it a bit more each day will help reduce the strain on your shoulders. Aiming for a balanced rest and activity to prevent your shoulders from stiffening, however, it is important to remain active even if you have to limit how much you do.
It is also important to remain active and try to get some exercise every day. Doing shoulder stretching and strengthening exercises can keep you active even with shoulder pain. Simple exercises such as the pendulum exercise, shoulder stretch, arm stretch, door lean and door press exercises can help strengthen as well as relieve shoulder pain. Also remember to keep exercising regularly, even after your shoulder pain has cleared up.
