Concerns About Shoulder Bulge
Hello! I'm a 23-year-old female weighing 198 pounds, and I've been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. I've been dealing with shoulder problems for several years now. In 2022, I underwent a capsular release procedure, but unfortunately, it didn't provide any relief; I feel it may have actually worsened my condition. Lifting my arm to the side is quite difficult, and when I manage to do so, I quickly experience a loss of sensation underneath, accompanied by a painful tingling sensation, similar to pins and needles. I suspect that there might be a muscle protruding in that area, but I'm uncertain why this is happening or how to address it. Before seeking consultation with a specialist, I’m hoping to gather some insights regarding whether this is something I should be worried about. For context, my left shoulder is functioning perfectly fine, while my right shoulder, which I am concerned about, exhibits noticeable issues. Although I can raise my arm higher, it requires an awkward maneuver that feels like it might dislocate my shoulder, resulting in a noticeable dimple beneath it when elevated. Additionally, I have observed what seems to be a winged scapula on the same side. If anyone has any thoughts or explanations regarding my shoulder problems, I would greatly appreciate your input!
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 3:40:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort and functional limitations with your right shoulder, particularly given your diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and the previous surgery. It’s important to address these concerns, as they can indicate underlying issues that may need further investigation.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms, including difficulty raising your arm and the tingling sensation, could result from joint instability, nerve compression, or muscle weakness, especially given your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
- The noticeable dimple and winged scapula suggest possible muscle imbalances or scapular instability, which can impact shoulder function.
Explanation:
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome affects connective tissues, leading to joint hypermobility and increased risk of soft tissue injuries. The symptoms you're experiencing, such as tingling and difficulty with movement, could indicate nerve irritation due to joint instability or muscle tension. The winged scapula, often caused by weakness in the muscles that stabilize the shoulder blade, can also contribute to visible changes in shoulder movement and position.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Tracking: Monitor your symptoms closely. Keep a journal noting when symptoms occur, their intensity, and any activities that may worsen or alleviate your discomfort.
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Gentle Exercises: Focus on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your shoulder and scapular muscles. This can help improve stability and reduce discomfort:
- Stretching: Include gentle pectoral and upper back stretches to relieve tightness.
- Strengthening: Focus on exercises targeting the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, like isometric exercises, which you can do without straining.
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Postural Awareness: Pay attention to your posture, especially when sitting or engaging in activities that involve your upper body. Maintaining good posture can support shoulder alignment and reduce strain.
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Rest and Ice: If you notice increased pain or swelling, take small breaks during activities, and consider using ice packs for 15–20 minutes to reduce inflammation.
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Assistive Devices: If lifting your arm is painful, consider using tools or aids to assist with overhead tasks to prevent excessive strain on your shoulder.
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Prepare for Specialist Consultation: When you do see a specialist, be prepared to discuss all your symptoms in detail. Bring your symptom journal, as this may provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment options.
If there are any changes in your symptoms, such as increased pain or loss of function, it will be important to address those promptly with a healthcare professional. You're doing the right thing by seeking information and being proactive about your health. Let me know if you have further questions or if there are specific aspects you want to explore!
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