Could My Shoulder Be Dislocated or Is It Just Tendon Issues?
I can't pinpoint any specific activity that led to this discomfort; it simply began to hurt. Although I'm able to move my arm, certain motions trigger a considerable sharp pain. This isn't the first time I've experienced pain like this. Back in my teenage years, my hip would ache whenever I walked extensively, causing me to limp, though it typically resolved itself by morning. I'm feeling quite anxious about my current situation. Sleep has become elusive since I usually rest my arm over my head and lie on it, a habit I’ve maintained since my youth. For context, I'm 33 years old. Overall, there’s a pervasive sense of discomfort. I'm curious if a shoulder must be completely immobile to be classified as dislocated. I've noticed a lump that extends down to my collarbone on the left side, which is also where I feel the pain, while the right doesn't seem affected nearly as much. Thank you for any insights you can provide; I truly appreciate your assistance.
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 1:10:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant shoulder discomfort, and I understand how concerning this can be, especially with previous issues and sleeping difficulties. A shoulder can be dislocated without complete immobility, and it's also possible you're dealing with tendon-related issues. Here's a breakdown of what might be happening and what you can do about it.
Main Points:
- Your shoulder pain could be due to a dislocation, tendon irritation, or other shoulder conditions.
- The lump by your collarbone could signify swelling or muscle tightness.
- Your symptoms warrant monitoring and specific self-care steps.
Explanation:
Shoulder pain can stem from various causes, including tendonitis (inflammation of tendons), bursitis (inflammation of the shoulder bursa), or a shoulder dislocation. A dislocated shoulder typically involves a noticeable change in shoulder shape or extreme pain and immobility, but if you can move your arm, it could be a more common issue like tendonitis or inflammation.
The lump you mentioned near your collarbone may indicate swelling due to irritation or muscle strain. If certain movements trigger sharp pain, this further suggests some underlying condition that needs attention.
Next Steps:
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Rest and Modify Activity: Avoid movements that trigger pain. Try to limit overhead activity and rest your arm in a comfortable position that doesn't exacerbate the pain.
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Ice Application: Apply an ice pack to your shoulder for 15–20 minutes several times a day to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Use a cloth to prevent ice burns.
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, if appropriate for you. These can help with pain and swelling (ensure you follow the recommended dosage).
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Gentle Stretching: After a few days of rest, once pain decreases, start gentle shoulder stretches. This can improve mobility and reduce tightness. Be cautious and stop if pain worsens.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms over the next week. If the pain persists, worsens, or you have additional symptoms like numbness, weakness, or instability, it’s important to seek professional medical advice.
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Sleep Position Adjustment: Try sleeping in a position that does not put pressure on your shoulder, using pillows for support if needed.
If your symptoms do not improve with these steps or if you have any concerning developments, it’s advisable to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation. Remember, you're not alone in this, and taking these steps can help alleviate some of the discomfort. Please take care of yourself!
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