23-Year-Old, 5'11.5" Tall, Weighing 144lbs: Experiencing Shoulder and Neck Pain Post-Fall
I am currently dealing with persistent pain that extends from my back to the right side of my neck, affecting my shoulder and bicep. This discomfort originated after I slipped while skateboarding, resulting in a fall where I landed on my side with my arms stretched out. The pain is always present, intensifying particularly when I am either seated or standing. I find it difficult to tilt my head in either direction; I can manage to turn it a bit to the right, but I struggle to move it even halfway to the left. Maintaining an upright posture is challenging as well. Initially, I rated the pain as a 4 on a scale of 10, but it has escalated to a level 7 over the course of an hour.
Answers (1)
8/9/2025, 1:01:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort following your fall, particularly in your neck, shoulder, and back. The pain you're describing, which has intensified over time, suggests a possible neck strain or injury to the muscles and connective tissues in that area. Let's focus on managing your pain and promoting recovery.
Explanation:
Your symptoms indicate that you may have strained the muscles or ligaments in your neck and shoulder, especially since you landed on your side with your arms stretched out. Such injuries can result in inflammation and can lead to lasting pain if not properly addressed. Pain that intensifies when seated or standing could be due to muscle tension and poor posture reflecting the discomfort you're experiencing.
Next Steps:
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Rest and Avoid Strain: Begin by minimizing activities that involve heavy lifting, twisting, or pushing with your arms. Allow your body some time to heal.
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Ice Application: Apply an ice pack (wrapped in cloth) to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed during the first 24-48 hours. This helps reduce swelling and numbs the area.
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Gentle Stretching: After the first couple of days, gently perform neck stretches. Slowly tilt your head towards each shoulder, holding for a few seconds, without forcing any motion. Stop if the pain worsens.
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Posture Awareness: Pay attention to your posture during daily activities. Try to sit or stand with your shoulders back and head aligned over your spine. Consider using a supportive chair or cushion while seated.
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you find it necessary, consider taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed on the package, to help manage your pain and inflammation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain levels and any other symptoms. If your pain persists or worsens over the next few days, or if you experience additional issues like numbness or tingling, think about seeking further evaluation.
By following these steps, you should be actively managing your discomfort and promoting recovery from your injury. Please take care and reach out if you have further questions or if your situation changes.
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