Shoulder Discomfort and Asymmetry: Seeking Insight
I'm a 22-year-old female, standing at 5'2" and weighing 115 pounds, with no noteworthy health issues in my past. My current medications include 90 mg of Cymbalta, 25 mg of Metoprolol, birth control pills, and vitamin D supplements. I've noticed that I tend to suffer from various injuries more often than most, although I won't delve into specifics. I lead a relatively active lifestyle, which could contribute to this, combined with my excessive flexibility that may lead to overextension during workouts. Recently, I underwent an X-ray of my back and was relieved to discover that scoliosis is not an issue for me, especially since it's affected my mother's and siblings' lives. However, I am perplexed as to why one of my shoulders appears markedly lower than the other. I consulted with a physiotherapist regarding my shoulder pain, and they mentioned that my shoulder is positioned incorrectly, although I'm uncertain what exactly that entails. They provided me with a series of exercises to follow. While the discomfort is manageable at the moment, I still experience occasional flare-ups. During these times, the sensation is akin to my shoulder feeling "saggy" or unsupported, and if I let it hang too long, the pain intensifies, making it necessary for me to support it on something like a table. I've scheduled another physiotherapy session, which also includes acupuncture for my facet joints, but that's not until several months from now. In the meantime, I can't help but wonder if the pain I'm experiencing might be contributing to the visible difference in my shoulder height. Does anyone else recognize these symptoms or have insights to share? Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
7/11/2025, 1:50:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing shoulder discomfort that may be related to muscular imbalances or posture issues, which could contribute to the visible asymmetry of your shoulder height. It’s good to hear that you've already consulted with a physiotherapist and have some exercises to follow. Here's a breakdown of your situation and some actionable steps you can take in the meantime.
Main Points:
- Shoulder discomfort and noticeable asymmetry may stem from muscle imbalances or postural issues.
- The exercises provided by your physiotherapist are crucial for addressing these imbalances.
- Maintaining proper posture and incorporating specific self-care strategies now can help reduce discomfort until your next physiotherapy session.
Explanation
Muscles around your shoulders and upper back help stabilize your shoulder joint. If some muscles are stronger or tighter than others, they can pull your shoulder out of alignment, leading to the asymmetry you’re noticing. Common contributors include posture during activities, injury patterns, and your inherent flexibility.
Given that you describe yourself as "excessively flexible," it’s possible that your muscles may not be providing adequate support during movement, leading to discomfort and the feeling of a "saggy" shoulder. This can sometimes be exacerbated by repetitive strain or inadequate resting positions.
Next Steps:
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Perform Your Physiotherapy Exercises: Continue with the exercises provided by your physiotherapist diligently. They are specifically tailored to help improve your shoulder alignment and strength.
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Posture Awareness: Be mindful of your posture throughout the day, especially during activities like studying or exercising. Try to keep your shoulders back and down to promote better alignment.
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Stretching and Strengthening: Beyond your physiotherapy exercises, incorporate gentle stretches for your upper back and shoulders. Engage in strength-training exercises that target the rotator cuff and upper back muscles to promote stability around the shoulder joint.
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Supportive Positions: When you feel discomfort, use supportive pillows or props to relieve pressure on your shoulder. For example, resting your arm on a cushion can ease strain during flare-ups.
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Heat and Ice Therapy: If you experience pain or stiffness, using a warm compress can help relax muscles, while ice can be used for any inflammation. Alternate between these methods to see what provides the best relief.
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Stay Active: Continue with your active lifestyle, but be cautious about any new movements or activities that may put undue strain on your shoulder until you feel stronger and more stable.
Remember, it’s positive that you are seeking help and monitoring your symptoms. Continue with your appointments and communicate any changes or heightened discomfort to your physiotherapist. They’ll be able to adjust your treatment plan as necessary. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask!
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