Understanding Pain in Left Shoulder: What to Expect from a Doctor

During your consultation for shoulder pain, the doctor will follow a specific protocol as you present your complaints. They may collect information about your medical history and conduct a physical examination to better understand your shoulder pain and left-side symptoms. A general physical examination would look into swelling, tenderness, bruising, and range of motion. For a detailed shoulder view, the doctor may request imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, etc. In addition, the doctor may ask you a few questions to determine the origin or cause of left shoulder pain. 

What Are the Common Causes of Pain in the Left Shoulder

As mentioned earlier, left shoulder pain is not limited to being a heart attack symptom and could be a sign of various musculoskeletal, developmental, and neurological conditions. 

Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis occurs when the bursae (tiny, fluid-filled sacs) become inflamed. The bursa cushions the tendons, bones, and muscles near the joints. Due to repetitive motion, the shoulder, elbow, and hip bursae enlarge, leading to bursitis. In addition, if the bursae are subject to direct trauma or infection, it can contribute to pain and swelling. 

Arthritis in Shoulder Joints

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are common age-related conditions leading to shoulder pain. The former involves wear and tear of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones. This leads to damaged stiffness, pain, loss of flexibility, etc. On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder characterized where the immune system attacks the body's tissues (lining of joints), leading to chronic inflammation and pain. 

Dislocation of the Shoulder

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the bone is displaced from its socket. Since the shoulder joint has the most extensive range of motion and the least stability, there are higher chances of the upper arm bone popping out of the socket. Falls, sports injuries, or other traumas can cause this condition. In addition, once a dislocation has occurred, you are highly vulnerable to multiple dislocations in the future. 

Frozen Shoulder

Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. In this condition, the capsule of connective tissue enclosing the shoulder joint thickens and tightens. This leads to restricted movement and a gradual increase in pain. Further, keeping your shoulder still for an extended period increases the risk of developing this condition. 

Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is the group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff maintains the placement of the upper arm bone in its socket. However, wear and tear, repetitive overhead movements, heavy lifting, and accidents can damage these muscles, leading to severe injuries. In this case, the pain usually starts as a dull ache and rapidly worsens. 

What Are the Symptoms of Pain in Left Shoulder and Arm Blade

Paying attention to the early signs of shoulder pain is key to avoiding severe injuries or illnesses. Post this, reaching out to a doctor can help you assess the nature of the condition and overcome the pain.

Treating pain in the left shoulder and arm involves several steps:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain to allow the affected muscles and joints to heal.

2. Ice and Heat Therapy: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation, followed by heat therapy to relax muscles and improve blood flow.

Common Signs of Shoulder Pain on Left Side 

Recognizing the symptoms of shoulder pain on the left side can help in early diagnosis and treatment. Here are the common signs to look out for:

• Warmth or redness around the affected area
• Neck, arm, or back pain
• A grinding, clicking, or popping sensation when you move the arm 
• Muscle stiffness
• Tenderness 
• Weakness
• Muscle spasms 
• Inflammation 
• Limited range of motion
• Sharp pain or shooting sensation in the shoulder
• Shortness of breath or chest pain

In the case of a dislocated shoulder, you may also notice the displaced bone jutting out of the socket. 

What should you expect during your visit for left shoulder pain?

When visiting a healthcare provider for left shoulder pain, you can expect the following steps:

1. Medical History

• Symptoms: Describe the pain (sharp, dull, constant, intermittent), its onset (sudden or gradual), and any activities that exacerbate or alleviate it.
• History: Discuss any previous shoulder injuries, surgeries, or similar pain in the past. Mention any other medical conditions you have.
• Daily Activities: Explain how the pain affects your daily activities and whether it limits your movement or sleep.

2. Physical Examination

• Inspection: The doctor will look for any visible abnormalities, such as swelling, bruising, or deformities.
• Palpation: They will feel around the shoulder to identify tender areas or unusual structures.
• Range of Motion: You’ll be asked to move your shoulder in different directions to assess its range of motion and identify any limitations or pain.
• Strength Tests: The doctor may test your shoulder's strength by asking you to resist certain movements.
• Special Tests: Specific maneuvers may be performed to diagnose particular shoulder issues, such as rotator cuff injuries or impingement syndrome.

3. Diagnostic Tests

• Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound might be ordered to get a detailed view of the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
• Lab Tests: Blood tests may be done if there’s a suspicion of infection or systemic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Diagnosis

Based on the history, physical exam, and any diagnostic tests, the doctor will provide a diagnosis. Common shoulder conditions include:

• Rotator cuff injuries (tears, tendinitis)
• Shoulder impingement
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Bursitis
• Arthritis
• Dislocation or instability
• Fractures

5. Treatment Plan

• Medications: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve flexibility.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections might be considered for reducing inflammation and pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be recommended.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Advice on activity modifications, ergonomics, and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain.

6. Follow-Up

• You will likely have follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
• Preparing for your visit
• Bring a list of your current medications, any relevant medical records, and a description of your symptoms.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your shoulder.
• Prepare questions about your diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect during recovery.

Being aware of what will happen during your visit can help you feel more prepared and enable you to provide your healthcare provider with all the necessary details.

Left Shoulder Pain in Women

Left shoulder pain in women can be caused by various factors, including muscle strain, rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, bursitis, or even referred pain from conditions like heart problems, gallbladder issues, or cervical spine problems. Consulting a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is recommended.

Treatment for Left Shoulder Pain

From home remedies to physical therapy and surgery, a wide range of treatment options can help you overcome left shoulder pain. 

Rest and cold compress

One of the most common advice most experts give is to take some time off and let your body rest. It is necessary to give your body the time it needs to heal and avoid intense activities that may worsen the condition. As you rest, the shoulder muscles regain strength and flexibility. A simple practice you can incorporate while resting is applying a cool pack that helps reduce swelling and pain. Experts recommend using an ice pack for at least 20 minutes and avoiding direct contact with the skin. 

Physical therapy

Basic stretching and strengthening exercises, acupuncture, chiropractic care, tissue mobilization exercises, and hydrotherapy can help reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation. In chiropractic care specifically, techniques that realign and readjust the skeletal structure can help you overcome pain, tightness, and tension. Further, physiotherapists offer home services that analyze your home and suggest general lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being. 

Gentle stretches

Regular stretches can activate joints and muscles and increase strength and flexibility. However, a few important things to consider before engaging in any exercise are warming up, maintaining good form, and avoiding any stretch that may strain your muscles and joints. Common stretches for left shoulder pain include a pendulum stretch and an overhead shoulder stretch. Your physiotherapist can suggest these stretches that gradually vary in intensity as you progress. 

Activity modification

Pausing your life due to this condition is not always possible or realistic. Hence, it is important to modify activities and make them more conducive to your present state to maintain daily functioning. For instance, you may have to avoid lifting heavy objects for a while, pick a pair of shoes that maintain good posture and alignment, and modify your environment to be more illness-friendly. 

Rehabilitation and prevention

A successful recovery is signified by overcoming the condition and avoiding future injuries. This is where rehabilitation and prevention come into play. Physiotherapists suggest being consistent with stretching and strengthening exercises post-recovery as this helps build strength and improve long-term well-being. In addition to this, following preventative measures like eating healthy, avoiding smoking, and fixing your posture and form can have several long-term benefits. 

When to Contact a Medical Professional?

Home remedies alone cannot completely cure left shoulder pain. Hence, seeking expert advice is essential to recovery. Keeping this in mind, pay attention to the following signs that emphasize the need to seek professional help.

• Persistent pain 
• Recurrent shoulder pain 
• Stiffness that limits your range of motion
• Weakness in your shoulder, arm, or hand 
• A dislocated shoulder
• Further, if you feel sudden pressure or a sharp pain in your left shoulder that travels across the chest, jaw, arm, or neck, consulting a doctor should be of high priority as it may be a sign of a heart attack. 

The Importance of Proper Treatment for Pain in the Left Shoulder

Early diagnosis and intervention play a huge role in a smooth recovery. This is true for any condition, including left shoulder pain. At Physiotattva, the team of experts is trained and certified in the latest physiotherapy treatment modalities. This experience allows them to comprehensively assess the condition and design a treatment plan that ensures a speedy recovery.   

What are the Most Common Causes of Pain in the Left Shoulder?

Since the shoulder joint has the greatest range of motion accompanied by the east amount of stability, strain or overexertion of any form can lead to pain. Common causes for the same include-

• Broken arm
• Broken collarbone 
• Frozen shoulder 
• Arthritis 
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Bursitis 
• Dislocation
• Heart attack 

How can I Tell if My Left Shoulder Pain is Serious?

If your left shoulder is swollen, tender, stiff, weak, and experiences severe pain as you move your arm, it may indicate something serious. In addition, if severe pain on the left side is accompanied by difficulty breathing and dizziness, it can be serious as these signs indicate a heart attack. 

Can I Prevent Shoulder Pain from Recurring?

There are several preventative measures to protect your shoulder from any form of injury or pain. Our experts suggest the following techniques to achieve the same result:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Weight-bearing exercises
• Trying to avoid smoking 
• Balanced diet 
• Warm-up exercises
• Being mindful of your posture and form

What can I do at home to treat left shoulder pain?

According to our experts, various natural remedies can help alleviate your shoulder pain, including. 

• Rest 
• Ice and heat therapy 
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Incorporating calcium and vitamin-rich food in your diet 
• Chiropractic care

Will the treatment require a follow-up with the doctor?

A follow-up would be required based on the nature and severity of the left shoulder pain. For example, with injuries that may be more likely to repeat themselves or are chronic, like dislocations, rotator cuff injuries, and arthritis, a follow-up is necessary. In addition, regular follow-ups are always conducted for those who have experienced left shoulder pain due to a heart attack.

Embracing your left shoulder pain with physiotattva

At Physiotattva, we provide expert guidance and comprehensive strategies to manage and prevent left shoulder pain. Our holistic approach includes personalized physical therapy, nutritional advice, and tailored treatment plans. We emphasize regular exercise, proper hydration, and effective stress management to maintain healthy muscles and flexibility. With Physiotattva, you receive the support and expertise needed to alleviate discomfort and enhance your quality of life.

Consult with us today for a customized approach to muscle health and well-being. Book now!

FAQs

1. How do you treat left shoulder pain?

Left shoulder pain is typically treated with rest, ice/heat therapy, pain relievers, and physical therapy exercises to improve strength and flexibility. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered.

2. What are the best exercises for left shoulder pain?

For left shoulder pain, gentle range of motion exercises like pendulum swings and shoulder blade squeezes can help, followed by strengthening exercises such as shoulder external rotations with resistance bands or dumbbells.

3. What is the main cause of left shoulder pain?

Left shoulder pain can be caused by various factors, including muscle strain, rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, bursitis, shoulder impingement syndrome, or arthritis. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment.

4. How do I know if my shoulder pain is muscular or heart-related?

Muscular shoulder pain typically worsens with movement and is localized to the shoulder area, while heart-related pain may be accompanied by symptoms like chest tightness, shortness of breath, and radiating pain to the arm or jaw. Seek medical attention if you experience these heart-related symptoms alongside shoulder pain.