Shoulder Pain from Lifting

Shoulder pain from lifting is often caused by a partial tear or tendonitis of the rotator cuffs. This is that part of your shoulder that enables you to move your shoulder with great flexibility. The rotator cuff is composed of a group of tendons in which if inflamed, causes you to feel shoulder pain. Getting to know what to do when you experience shoulder pain due to lifting will help relieve your problem.

Determine the Cause

Younger patients may suffer from shoulder pain when they engage in strenuous activities involving heavy lifting such as weight-lifting, javelin throw, tennis, baseball or any other type of activity that makes use of your shoulders. People who have existing sports injuries are already at risk for partial tear of the rotator cuff tendons. A dislocated or fractured shoulder can happen if you experience a violent fall with your arms stretched out. If you feel shoulder pain, you recall the last activity that you did to identify its cause. This information will prove to be more useful when you are examined by a physician in case the pain gets worse. If you have just lifted heavy boxes or moved heavy furniture around the house, do not attempt to do those things again for a few days.

Seek medical attention

If your shoulder pain from lifting gets any more painful during the night, it’s time to consult a physician for proper medication. Have your shoulder pain examined to determine what needs to be done medically. For severe cases of shoulder pain from lifting, you may be given a corticosteroid injection for immediate pain relief. The doctor may also refer you to a physical therapist to manage your shoulder pain better.

Follow the exercises in physical therapy

A physical therapist can work with you to begin strengthening your shoulder or rotator cuff. There some exercises that would involve rotating your shoulder gently for a few minutes. Do not overdo your exercises since you will only strain your shoulder. Get sufficient rest to allow your shoulder to recover faster.

Inquire about surgical intervention for chronic shoulder pain.

If you notice that your shoulder pain from lifting is getting worse as the days go by, you need to have your shoulder examined again. There may be more problems with the tendons in your rotator cuff. You may need to be X-rayed and tested for any other complications. If you must get an operation, doctors will re-attach any torn ligament to your shoulder. This is often the main culprit for severe pain.
An active lifestyle and a stressful environment are contributing factors to shoulder pain from lifting. It is important to always rest your arms and legs from serious physical activity. The next time you clean house or help a friend move his things, be sure to lift only what you can. Too much weight on your shoulders can possibly cause serious damage. Take action the moment you feel shoulder pain from lifting.
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shoulder pain from lifting