What’s Causing Pain in the Right Shoulder? Find Out the Reasons

Do you know that shoulder and arm pain rank among the most prevalent problems among individuals and can escalate if not addressed on time? Our shoulders and arms carry out complex daily activities and can subsequently be vulnerable to injury, causing pain on either the left or right side. To better understand the consequences of this affliction, let's explore some of the primary underlying causes that often lead to right shoulder and arm pain.

Anatomy of the Shoulder and Arm

The shoulders are some of the most mobile joints in the body. This means that they are used to function in a series of actions that are stressful and can hurt the joints and muscles in the region.

In most cases, right shoulder pain occurs when there is inflammation in the tendons and cartilage in the shoulder region due to injury, medical condition, or wear and tear. These pains can vary in intensity and can occur across the shoulder and radiate into the arms.

Shoulder pain can often be treated with rest, medication, and physiotherapy.

Understanding shoulder and arm pain thoroughly requires a foundational knowledge of their intricate anatomy. The shoulder and arm comprise essential components, such as bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. By familiarizing ourselves with these structures and their interplay, we can gain better insights into pain's underlying causes and mechanisms.

15 Causes of  Right Shoulder and Arm Pain that You Should Know About

Shoulder and arm pain are common complaints that can arise from various conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment and management.

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

The rotator cuffs are a series of muscles and tendons that help keep the upper bone in the shoulder socket. An injury to the tendons in this region results in rotator cuff tendonitis or tear, resulting in pain and swelling in the shoulder.

This is often caused due to shock and repetitive pressure on the tendons due to physical activities.

Swimmer's Shoulder

A swimmer's shoulder occurs due to repeated circular motion usage of the shoulder joints, resulting in swelling, irritation, and possible tear of the tendons. It is known as a swimmer's shoulder as it is a common injury in swimmers due to their engagement of the shoulders.

Frozen Shoulder

A frozen shoulder occurs when there is stiffness in the shoulder, creating a "lock" when engaging it in activities. The common reason for this is inflammation of the joints, which can cause such arthritis.

Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder dislocations can be quite painful and are common in individuals who engage in high-contact sports or activities. It is a condition when the top of the humerus pops out of its socket in the shoulder. This can create immobilization in the shoulder and result in tears in tendons and cartilage in the bones.

Broken Collarbone

A broken collarbone occurs when the clavicle has an impact or stress. This can occur due to sudden impact on the clavicle due to a fall or effect from the external body. It can be challenging to treat and requires care. Neck injuries may also occur when there is a broken collarbone.

Sprain

Sprains can occur in the shoulder when there is a tear in the ligament of the shoulder. This can occur due to low strength of the ligament, excessive use, lack of physical exercises, and sudden impact externally.

Sprains can cause swelling and soreness and make it difficult to engage in activities.

Brachial Neuritis

Brachial Neuritis occurs when the brachial nerve that runs through the shoulder and arms is inflamed due to stress, physical injury, or compression. This can result in a numbing sensation and even cause soreness and pain.

It often occurs due to sudden movement and stress due to impact.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome occurs when the nerves and blood vessels around the collar bone and the first rib become compressed. This can result in a series of issues that can cause shortness of breath, a locked chest, and reduced mobility in the torso.

It occurs due to impact on the chest region and sudden pressure on the torso.

Fracture

A fracture in the humerus or the upper bone in your arm can result in shoulder pain as it can impact the joints and muscles in the shoulder. This can result from physical impacts such as a fall or accident.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can occur when there is regular wear and tear of the joints and the tendons around the joint with time. This condition can deteriorate with time and result in reduced mobility, increased inflammation, and pain in the region.

Shoulder Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition with significant deterioration of joints in the body. Often individuals with RA can have shoulder pains in the first two years of having RA. 

The condition worsens with time, and if not managed timely, it can result in severe immobility of the shoulders.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical Radiculopathy is when a nerve in the neck becomes compressed, resulting in loss of sensation, numbing pain, and reduced mobility in the shoulder and neck region.

It can occur due to improper posture, sudden impact, and other conditions.

Heart Problems

In some cases, an underlying heart issue can result in throbbing pain in the back and extends into the arms and shoulder. This occurs when there is low blood circulation to the shoulder and may occur due to genetic conditions, lifestyle changes, and stress.

Disuse Syndrome

Disuse syndrome is a condition where right shoulder pains can occur due to a sedentary lifestyle. The lower movement in the shoulder due to lack of activities can stiffen the bones and joints and cause pain. This can also reduce blood flow, which can aggravate muscle deterioration.

Overuse

In contrast to the disuse syndrome, overuse can result in injuries to the bones and tendons, causing friction and tear in the tendons. This is often a cause for shoulder pain as the body is not rested well.

Additional Causes of Shoulder and Arm Pain

Beyond the common causes, certain conditions can lead to specific patterns of pain in the shoulder and arms.​

Pain in Both Upper Arms and Shoulders

Experiencing pain in both upper arms and shoulders may indicate systemic conditions like polymyalgia rheumatica or bilateral rotator cuff injuries. These conditions often cause stiffness and aching in both shoulders and upper arms.​

Pain Radiating Down Right Arm

Pain radiating down right arm can result from nerve compression or cervical spine issues. Conditions like herniated discs or cervical radiculopathy can cause sharp, shooting pains from the shoulder down to the hand.​

Right Arm Pain from Shoulder to Hand

When experiencing right arm pain from shoulder to hand, it may be due to nerve impingement or conditions like thoracic outlet syndrome, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain along the entire arm.

Right Shoulder Pain in Women

Right shoulder pain in women can stem from causes that are both common to all genders and uniquely female-specific. Recognising these gender-specific factors is important for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Common Causes of Right Shoulder Pain in Women

Right shoulder pain in women can be influenced by both general musculoskeletal issues and gender-specific factors. The following conditions are more commonly seen or have unique implications in women:

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect musculoskeletal health and pain sensitivity.
• Osteoporosis: Women, especially post-menopausal, are more prone to low bone density. This increases the risk of fractures, which can result in right shoulder pain.
• Referred Pain from Gynaecological Conditions: Certain abdominal or pelvic conditions (e.g., endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, or gallbladder issues) can cause referred pain that presents in the right shoulder due to shared nerve pathways.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, which are more prevalent in women, may cause joint inflammation in the shoulder.
• Breast Surgery or Mastectomy: Post-surgical complications or scar tissue can lead to restricted shoulder movement and chronic pain.
• Poor Posture or Overuse: Activities such as prolonged desk work, carrying children, or household chores may cause muscle strain and pain in the right arm and shoulder.

Treatment Options for Right Shoulder Pain

Effective treatment depends on the underlying cause of the pain. Common approaches include:​

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for shoulder and arm pain. It involves targeted exercises that improve strength, flexibility, posture, and joint mobility. Therapists may use manual techniques, resistance training, and guided movements to restore function. Regular sessions can reduce pain, prevent further injury, and support long-term recovery, especially for conditions like rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, and disuse syndrome.

Medications

Medications help manage symptoms such as pain, inflammation, and swelling. Common options include over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen, prescription anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and corticosteroids. Sometimes, oral medications may be combined with topical applications or injections. While medicines offer temporary relief, they are most effective when paired with lifestyle changes and physiotherapy for lasting improvement in shoulder and arm conditions.

Surgical Interventions

In cases where conservative management fails or the condition is severe, procedures like rotator cuff repair, arthroscopy, or even total shoulder replacement may be recommended to restore mobility and reduce pain.

When to Seek Medical Help for Shoulder and Arm Pain

Not all shoulder and arm pain is minor—some signs may indicate serious underlying issues that require immediate attention. It’s important to know when professional intervention is necessary to avoid complications.

• If sharp pain in the right shoulder occurs suddenly without an apparent injury.
• When pain is accompanied by numbness or tingling in the right arm.
• If there is persistent pain radiating down the right arm or into the chest or neck area.
• If there are signs of inflammation, swelling, or limited range of motion.

Understanding the unique causes of shoulder and arm pain can lead to faster diagnosis and more effective, targeted treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a physiotherapist for a thorough evaluation.

Physiotattva Takes Care of Your Pain

At Physiotattva, you'll find a tailor-made program to manage shoulder pain effectively. With our pioneering facilities and precision analysis, our in-house medical experts can provide accurate insight into your condition. Our physiotherapists can create suitable regimens for you designed to improve mobility, flexibility, and strength in your shoulder. Studies have shown that most shoulder pain can be alleviated or completely treated without needing drugs with the right physiotherapy. We recognise that every patient has unique characteristics and circumstances, as does their treatment plan. That's why our specialists have come up with a treatment program that's exclusive to you. Don't wait any longer; consult with us today, and let us develop a comprehensive strategy to reduce shoulder pain, help improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.

At Physiotattva physiotherapy clinics in Bangalore and Hyderabad, you receive personalised care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective results and comfort throughout your journey to recovery. 

Don’t wait to start your recovery! Get in touch with Physiotattva for more details! Contact us at +91 89510 47001.

FAQs

What does it mean when your shoulder and arm hurt?

It often means that your shoulders are stressed and have an underlying impact on the tendons and joints in the shoulder. It may signify the need for exercise, nutrients, or medical intervention for other underlying medication conditions.

What causes pain in both shoulders and upper arms?

Several reasons, such as tears in the tendon, wear and tear of joints, arthritis, heart condition, and nerve damage, are common causes of pain in the shoulder and upper arm.

What causes right shoulder pain that radiates down the arm?

Right shoulder pain that radiates down the arm can be caused by various factors, including rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, cervical radiculopathy, shoulder bursitis, and osteoarthritis. Consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What is the best treatment for shoulder and arm pain?

The optimal treatment varies based on the cause. Conservative methods like rest, ice, and physical therapy are effective for many. However, persistent or severe cases may require medications or surgical interventions.