Almost everyone experiences shoulder pain at some point, and it can usually be treated with a mild pain reliever or by applying ice to the area that is the most sore. However, there are some instances when shoulder pain can be more severe and these will require you to contact your doctor for treatment.

Strategies for Treating Shoulder Pain at Home

In addition to aspirin or a cold pack, there are exercises you can do to improve the strength of your shoulder and lessen the pain you are experiencing in it. Begin by holding your arm straight out and rotating it until you hear or feel small snaps in your shoulder. This should not be painful. If it is, stop immediately and notify your doctor.

Allow the shoulder to rest by limiting the amount of activity it is required to perform. If possible, avoid reaching above your head with your arms while your should recuperates. Also, avoid sitting for long periods of time in the same position as this can aggravate both shoulder and neck pain.

If you are not getting any relief from taking an anti-inflammatory pain medication, your doctor may be able to give you a cortisone injection to lessen pain.

How to Know if Shoulder Pain is More Severe

If you are unable to carry objects in your arms, raise your arms or if your shoulder pain persists for more than a few days, consult with your doctor as soon as possible. Other signs to look for are experiencing shoulder pain while you are sleeping or inactive, swelling or bruising, or any sign of an infection such as fever or redness in the affected area.

Shoulder Injuries Which Require Surgery

There are certain types of shoulder injuries that typically do not respond well to medication, exercise or rest. These are dislocation of the shoulder or a rotator cuff injury. In a dislocation, parts of the shoulder bone fall out of place and need surgery to be put back where they belong.

With a rotator cuff injury, the pain is usually felt when you lift something over your head or raise your arm. It can be quite severe and enough to keep you awake at night and from the activities your normally enjoy. Since the rotator cuff supports muscles that give your shoulder mobility, it is important to correct the problem with surgery as soon as possible.