Although they may seem to be separate problems, shoulder and neck pain can actually be connected. If you feel pain in your shoulder you may have a neck issue. Sometimes a sore neck may mask a shoulder problem. How are they related? It is important to understand how they are connected and to find out what is causing the pain. This will allow you to get the right treatment and help you feel better.
Understanding the Connection
Many people struggle to determine whether their pain is in the neck or shoulders. Because pain from your neck can radiate to the shoulders. The nerves that provide sensation to your shoulders come from the neck. The neck and shoulders are interconnected. These parts of the body share bones, tendons, ligaments, and connective soft tissue, which makes it possible for the pain to radiate through these areas.
Sometimes, pain in the shoulder can be caused by your neck. The nerves and muscles from your neck travel down your arm through the shoulder. Brachial Plexus: The nerves that originate from your neck (Nerve root) also travel down your arm. Neck pain can also extend down your arm. The pain in the neck is typically felt above your trapezius muscle at the top, and the pain in the shoulder is over your upper arm.
Many people experience pain in the shoulder and neck. An experienced physician will be able to tell the difference between the two types of pain.
Shoulder vs. Neck Pain Symptoms
Although the neck or cervical spine and the shoulders are closely linked, each has its own symptoms. Common symptoms of shoulder pain:
- It can develop in your shoulder or on the outside side of your upper arm.
- Radiates pain into your upper arm
- It gets worse when you reach overhead, behind your back or lift heavy objects.
- It is worse at night, especially if you are lying on your side
- It is more like a dull, persistent ache
- Feels better after resting your arm
These symptoms can also be caused by neck pain, which they also recognize.
- Radiates to your shoulder or to the side or near your neck
- Sometimes, pain radiating down your arm can feel like an electric shock.
- Radiates pain into your hand and elbow
- It can cause pain that is worse if you twist or move the neck
- Rest is not the best treatment for pain, but support can help.
What causes neck and shoulder pain?
Some people only experience neck pain while others only experience shoulder pain. Others experience both. These are the most common causes of neck pain:
- Abnormalities in bone and joints
- Trauma
- Poor posture
- Degenerative diseases
- Tumors
- Muscle strain
These are the most common causes of shoulder pain according to medical professionals.
- Overexertion can cause strains
- Overuse can cause Tendonitis.
- Shoulder joint instability
- Dislocation
- Upper arm bone fractures or clavicle fractures
- Frozen shoulder (stiffness or pain in the shoulder joint)
- Pinched nerves (also known as cervical radiculopathy or cervical radiculopathy).
- Rotator cuff tears (rotator-cuff refers to a grouping of muscles and tendon that surrounds the shoulder joint. They keep the head of your upper arm bone in the shallow socket of your shoulder.
The Right Treatment
You can relieve mild neck or shoulder pain by using a few home remedies. If you have more severe symptoms, consult a licensed Physical Therapist or doctor.
- Get away from any activities that could cause injury or aggravate the region.
- For the first three days following the pain, apply an ice pack to the affected area. Wrap the ice pack in towel and apply it 5 times daily for 20 minutes. This will reduce swelling.
- OTC pain relief medications are available.
- Massage the neck and shoulder areas gently.
Our licensed therapists at Renew Concierge Physical Therapy offer physical therapy for shoulder Pain to improve your function and alleviate your pain.
The first step in treating shoulder pain is to understand why. Request an appointment with us if you have neck or shoulder pain. We can help you achieve your goals and make your life more enjoyable and healthier.