What it means if your shoulder hurts when you lift your arm

Shoulder Hurts When You Lift Your Arm?

Shoulder pain when you lift your arm can mean a number of different things, but the most common cause is typically a problem with your rotator cuff. This is an array of muscles and tendons that help connect the arm to the shoulder socket, while allowing for the complex movements we require of our arm. 

Since this flexible and intricate area also has to withstand a high degree of stress, injuries to this area affect a large number of people. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, around 2 million people seek medical attention in the United States each year alone. To determine if a rotator cuff injury or another issue is the cause of your pain, it’s important to seek diagnosis and treatment from a qualified professional. 

Why you should see a physical therapist for shoulder pain 

Physical therapists are experts in the complex functioning of the human body, including the shoulder. When you meet with a physical therapist regarding shoulder pain that hurts when you lift your arm, he or she is specially trained to perform a series of tests and examinations to determine the underlying cause. This process will also include a discussion of your treatment history and activity level and questions about your specific symptoms.

From there, steps can be taken to address the issue, relieve pain, promote the natural healing process and reduce long-term injury risk. Typical physical therapy treatments for shoulder pain include:

  • Strength and stability exercises
  • Range-of-motion stretches
  • Shoulder movement training
  • Manual therapy, including soft tissue mobilization 

Physical therapy should also involve education from your therapist regarding healthy lifestyle choices and steps you can take every day to lessen the strain on your shoulder.

Start your shoulder pain relief journey today

Shoulder pain can have a negative effect on your life, taking you out of your favorite sports and activities and making it difficult to accomplish basic tasks. When you work with our caring and highly experienced therapists, we’ll be happy to help you develop a personalized treatment plan that is right for you and your treatment goals. 

Don’t let shoulder pain keep you on the sidelines. Contact us today to get started and schedule your initial appointment with one of our therapists.