Shoulder pain is a common ailment that can significantly impact daily activities, from simple tasks like reaching for a shelf to demanding actions like lifting heavy objects. The estimated prevalence of shoulder pain varies considerably, ranging from 1% to 66%. Among the various types of shoulder pain, a burning sensation can be particularly troubling, often indicating underlying issues that need attention. Knowing how to treat burning sensations in shoulder joints is crucial for effective management and relief.
Causes of Burning Pain in Shoulder
Rotator Cuff Issues
Rotator Cuff Tears
Partial or full tears in the rotator cuff are common causes of shoulder pain. About 25% of people aged 40-60 have partial-thickness rotator cuff tears, which affect muscles and bones. These tears can cause a burning sensation, especially during arm movements.
Inflammation
Inflammation in the rotator cuff can lead to a sharp pain in the shoulder, often exacerbated by repetitive movements or overuse.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis, or inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons, is another common issue in the rotator cuff. It can result from overuse, injury, or age-related degeneration and lead to persistent burning pain and limited range.
Nerve Involvement
Burner or Stinger
A burner or stinger is a nerve injury that occurs when the neck and shoulder are stretched or compressed. This can cause a burning pain that radiates down the shoulder and arm, often associated with a frozen shoulder.
Parsonage-Turner Syndrome
This rare condition involves sudden, severe shoulder pain, muscle weakness, and atrophy. The pain often has a burning quality and can last for days to weeks before the weakness sets in.
Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment Syndrome (SNES)
SNES involves compression of the suprascapular nerve, which can lead to burning pain in the shoulder, especially during overhead activities, potentially causing nerve compression.
Fractures
Shoulder fractures, such as those of the collarbone or humerus (the upper arm bone), can cause acute burning pain due to the trauma and subsequent inflammation, often leading to broken shoulder or shoulder dislocation.
Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to chronic pain with a burning sensation due to joint degeneration and inflammation, sometimes caused by bone spur or bone diseases. This can particularly affect the edges of bones and might involve extra bone growth.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Although primarily associated with wrist pain, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause referred pain to the shoulder, sometimes as a burning sensation.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc in the cervical spine can compress nerve roots that supply the shoulder region, causing burning pain that radiates from the neck to the shoulder. This pain is often accompanied by neck pain involving neck muscles.
Shoulder Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa in the shoulder, known as bursitis, can cause burning pain, especially during movement or pressure on the shoulder.
Symptoms That Require Medical Attention
Specific symptoms associated with burning shoulder pain warrant immediate medical attention. These include sudden onset of severe pain, significant weakness, inability to move the shoulder, visible deformity, shortness of breath, or signs of infection such as fever and redness.
Treatment for Burning Pain in the Shoulder
Conservative Treatments
Rest
Allowing the shoulder to rest and avoiding activities like heavy lifting that exacerbate the pain is often the first step in treatment.
Ice Therapy
Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the burning pain.
Modifying Activities
Adjusting daily activities to avoid shoulder movements that trigger pain can help manage symptoms and prevent further injury.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Physical Therapy
A study has demonstrated that a specific physical therapy protocol can be very effective in treating symptoms in patients with atraumatic full-thickness rotator cuff tears, a common shoulder injury. Physical therapy is a cornerstone of shoulder pain treatment. Tailored exercises and stretches can improve strength, flexibility, and function while reducing pain.
Medical Interventions
Corticosteroid Injections
For more severe inflammation, corticosteroid injections can provide significant pain relief by reducing inflammation.
Surgical Options for Severe Cases
In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options like shoulder surgery may be considered. These can include arthroscopic procedures to repair torn tendons or remove inflamed tissue.
Tips for Preventing Burning Shoulder Pain
- Maintain good posture: Proper posture can reduce strain on the shoulder.
- Strengthening exercises: Regular exercise to strengthen shoulder muscles can help prevent injuries.
- Ergonomic adjustments: Ensure that your workspace and daily activities are ergonomically friendly to avoid undue stress on the shoulder.
- Warm-up before activities: Proper warm-up can prepare the shoulder for physical activity and reduce the risk of injury.
Find Relief for Burning Pain in Shoulder at RecoverRx Physical Therapy
At RecoverRx Performance Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating shoulder pain, including burning sensations. Our team of experienced therapists in physical therapy Oakbrook Terrace offers personalized treatment plans to address the root causes of your pain and help you regain function and comfort. We focus on evidence-based practices and utilize the latest techniques in physical therapy to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Conclusion
Burning shoulder pain can be debilitating, but understanding its causes and type of pain can lead to effective management and relief. Numerous potential sources of this pain exist, from rotator cuff tendinitis to nerve involvement. Treatment options range from conservative measures like rest and physical therapy to medical interventions when necessary. Taking preventive steps and seeking professional help can alleviate burning shoulder pain and improve your quality of life.
FAQs
When should you not ignore shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain should not be ignored if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms such as significant weakness, inability to move the shoulder, visible deformity, or signs of infection like fever and redness. These could indicate underlying severe conditions that require medical care.
How can I tell if shoulder pain is serious?
Serious shoulder pain is often characterized by sudden, severe pain, inability to move the shoulder, significant weakness, or pain that radiates down the arm. If you experience these symptoms, seeking medical professional evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment is essential.
How to get rid of burning pain in shoulder blade?
To alleviate burning pain in shoulder blade, consider the following steps:
- Rest the affected shoulder and avoid activities that worsen the pain.
- Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and numb the area.
- Take NSAIDs to manage pain and inflammation.
- Engage in physical therapy exercises to strengthen and stretch the shoulder muscles.
- Consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
By addressing the root causes and following a comprehensive treatment approach, you can find relief from burning shoulder pain and regain your normal activities.
