Possible Explanations for Intense Shoulder Pain
Age 28, weight 141 lbs. I smoke e-cigarettes and marijuana. Recently diagnosed with non-specific colitis, although a colonoscopy indicated it is not chronic. Additionally, I have a history of anorexia, PTSD, and depression, though the depression is currently not active and I’m not taking any medication. For several years, I’ve experienced intermittent sharp pain in my right shoulder. At times, the discomfort subsides quickly, but there are moments when it’s excruciating, lasting for what feels like an eternity. During those instances, I find myself immobilized, consumed by the pain and silently wishing for it to end. One of my biggest concerns is that I might experience this while driving. I plan to discuss this with my physician. In the meantime, I’m curious about what might be causing this discomfort?
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 6:40:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation concerning your intense shoulder pain. The factors contributing to your discomfort may include muscular issues, referred pain from other areas (like your neck or upper back), or even conditions related to your medical history and lifestyle choices.
Possible Causes
- Muscle Strain or Injury: Overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements can strain the muscles around your shoulder, leading to sharp pain.
- Nerve Compression: Conditions like a herniated disc in your cervical spine can compress nerves that lead to shoulder pain.
- Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the shoulder can stem from issues in the abdomen or chest, which may be linked to your colitis or other conditions.
- Anxiety and Tension: Emotional stress from PTSD and past eating disorders can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension and pain.
Next Steps
- Pain Management: Start with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but follow the packaging instructions to avoid any potential side effects.
- Stretching and Strengthening: Gentle stretching or specific shoulder strengthening exercises (consider yoga or physical therapy routines) can help improve flexibility and reduce pain.
- Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat (like a warm towel) can relax tense muscles, while cold packs can reduce inflammation, particularly after activities that worsen your pain.
- Track Symptoms: Keep a journal of your pain episodes—note the time of day, activities you were doing, and the intensity of pain. This will be valuable information for your physician.
- Avoid Triggers: Pay attention to activities that worsen the pain, such as certain movements or postures, and try to avoid them to prevent flare-ups.
It's great that you plan to discuss this with your physician, as they can help pinpoint the underlying cause and suggest treatment options tailored to your needs. In the meantime, the steps outlined can help you manage your pain and reduce the risk of experiencing it while driving. Remember, you're taking proactive steps to improve your health, and that's commendable.
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