Shoulder Pain? 4 Tips to Ease a Sore Shoulder
Approximately 26% of adults suffer from shoulder pain at some point in their lives. In fact, shoulder pain is one of the most common regional pain syndromes.
Unfortunately, many adults fail to realize how treatable it is with simple remedies for shoulder pain.
Caring for a sore shoulder will ease your pain, making it bearable overall.
Continue reading to learn tips on how to ease a sore shoulder!
1. Surgery
Shoulder pain can be highly uncomfortable and gradually worsen if left untreated. Some people prefer to try at-home treatments than getting surgery. They often turn to surgery as a last resort once the pain becomes unbearable.
However, surgery can help fix a sore surgery depending on the issue. Explain what caused your pain and discomfort levels to your doctor. The doctor will examine your shoulder and determine if you need surgery or not.
Be sure to be as descriptive as possible so there are no doubts. Doing so will give your doctor all the necessary information to determine the best treatment.
Remember, most surgeries require rest time to heal. Depending on the severity, this time could last anywhere between one to six months. You must not use your shoulder until given the okay by your doctor, or you risk reinjuring it.
2. Icing
Icing your shoulder is an excellent way to ease your pain if it is not yet severe enough for surgery. Icing your shoulder will help reduce internal swelling. Reduced swelling will allow your shoulder to relax as the soreness is reduced.
You should ice your shoulder in 15-minute intervals. You can do this up to four times daily for about three days straight. Remember to never put ice directly on the skin, as it could cause more pain overall.
After you ice your shoulder, you should avoid any physical straining. Be sure your shoulder is getting adequate rest after you ice it.
3. Massaging
Another treatment for sore shoulders includes massaging. Massaging your shoulder will help release any tension built up in the area. Your muscles will be able to relax, giving you more mobility.
Massaging your sore shoulder will also help improve the blood flow to the area. More blood flow will reduce inflammation and give you better functions as well.
Always massage your shoulder with your fingertips in a circular motion. Apply moderate pressure to the sore area and repeat as needed.
4. Stretching
Stretching your muscles is excellent for sore shoulders. Most sore shoulders are also tight and stiff.
Stretching them will allow your muscle fibers to loosen and relax. Some helpful shoulder stretches include:
- Chest expansions
- Shoulder circles
- Seated twists
- Doorway shoulder stretch
- Downward dog pose
You can do these stretches each day to relieve shoulder soreness. Remember to only stretch to a comfortable point and never over-exert your muscles.
Tips to Ease a Sore Shoulder
These tips to ease a sore shoulder should help relieve the pain and discomfort. Remember to stretch frequently and get adequate rest. Consider contacting your medical provider should any pain worsen or become unbearable.
Don’t forget to contact us today to make an appointment for your shoulder needs. We will take the best care of you here at Idaho Shoulder to Hand Specialists!
