Seeking Guidance for Shoulder Pain
Greetings, I appreciate any assistance as I prepare to consult with a healthcare professional promptly. I am a 38-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 200 pounds. Two years ago, I sustained an injury to my left shoulder while at work. While I was transporting a heavy item alongside a colleague, he advanced too swiftly after navigating some debris. I was still traversing the rubble when I felt and heard a distinct popping sound, accompanied by a sharp pain concentrated at the ball of my shoulder, particularly near the bone's center. Initially, the pain was intense but subsided within a few hours. In the aftermath, my left shoulder began to click during rotational movements, occasionally accompanied by short-lived pain flare-ups, though they were infrequent. Currently, I am recuperating from back surgery, and returning to the gym has significantly aided my recovery. As part of my routine, I incorporated exercises targeting my upper body and shoulders in hopes of preventing any future injuries. After a physically demanding job, I took a week to rest, during which I experienced no pain or injuries. Upon returning to the gym for a week, I adhered to my typical upper and lower body workout schedule, ensuring adequate rest. I opted for lighter weights, as I was still adjusting post-job. My workouts were pain-free until last Friday, when I awoke with discomfort in the mid upper spine, predominantly on the left side. The tightness progressed, with discomfort radiating toward my neck. Although I was able to sleep on my right side, Saturday morning brought severe agony in my left shoulder, localized right on the bone, accompanied by muscle spasms in my left pectoral area and shoulder blade. The persistent ache was debilitating, yet I maintained full range of motion and strength. I attempted several self-diagnostic stretches, all of which I could perform without aggravating the condition, although some did intensify the pain afterward. Over the last four days, the pain may have slightly lessened, but spasms continue almost unabated, and the discomfort remains constant. Lying on my left side exacerbates the pain dramatically. The discomfort seems to radiate down my left arm, suggesting it follows the tendon pathway, also affecting the left shoulder blade area. However, the primary discomfort feels deeply situated within the shoulder itself. I would greatly appreciate any insights regarding the nature of my condition and recommendations on activities I should or shouldn’t engage in prior to my medical appointment. I have managed a few light cardio sessions using the elliptical and have been alternating between heat and ice for relief. Should I discontinue the heat treatment? Additionally, I have a leg day workout scheduled for tomorrow; should I refrain from lifting weights or push through this pain? Is it possible that this is tendonitis? Why might the pain have surfaced so abruptly and with such intensity? Any advice would be welcomed and appreciated.
Answers (1)
9/9/2025, 9:20:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm glad you're reaching out for assistance as you prepare for your medical consultation. Your detailed description of shoulder pain and associated symptoms is essential in understanding your condition.
Main Points:
- Your shoulder pain may be related to past injury, potential tendonitis, or musculoskeletal strain.
- It’s important to manage activities and follow some self-care measures before your appointment.
- Consider the balance of rest and mobility while monitoring symptoms.
Understanding Your Condition
The popping sound you experienced during the original injury suggests there may have been damage to the ligaments or tendons in your shoulder. Given that the pain has returned with intensity after resuming physical activities, it could suggest:
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons that may cause pain and discomfort in the shoulder area.
- Muscular strain: Overexertion could irritate the muscles around the shoulder, leading to spasms and pain.
- Re-injury: The intense pain may be due to not fully recovering from your prior shoulder injury, especially after your recent back surgery and returning to workouts.
Next Steps
-
Activity Modification:
- Limit Shoulder Workouts: Avoid any upper body exercises that involve lifting straining on your shoulder for a while. Focus on lower body workouts that don’t strain your shoulder. If it causes discomfort, stop immediately.
-
Pain Management:
- Continue Ice and Heat: Alternate using ice and heat as needed; ice can reduce inflammation, while heat can help muscle relaxation. If heat exacerbates the pain, it may be best to use ice instead.
- Gentle Stretches: Engage in gentle shoulder stretches that do not cause pain. Discontinue any stretches that worsen your discomfort.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a log of your symptoms, noting when pain intensifies or decreases, what activities you were doing at the time, and how you managed pain. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.
-
Rest and Recovery:
- Make sure to rest as needed and avoid positions that exacerbate the pain, especially lying on your left side.
-
Pain Relief:
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen may provide relief. Ensure you're following proper dosages and consult with a pharmacist if you need confirmation.
Being attentive to your body’s signals is important as you recover, especially post-surgery. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, it will be crucial to inform your healthcare provider at your upcoming appointment.
Take care and best of luck with your recovery! Let me know if you have further questions.
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