Shoulder pain- causes and remedies

Shoulder pain often results from repetitive movements, poor posture, or traumatic injury. The shoulder, being one of the most mobile joints in the body, is susceptible to strain and inflammation, which can disrupt daily activities.

Common causes of shoulder pain*

  • Rotator cuff injuries: Damage or inflammation of the rotator cuff muscles and tendons can lead to persistent shoulder pain, especially with overhead activities
  • Tendonitis and Bursitis: Repetitive use or sudden injury can cause inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) or the fluid-filled sacs (bursitis) around the shoulder joint, resulting in sharp pain and limited movement
  • Arthritis: Age-related wear-and-tear or autoimmune conditions can cause inflammation in the shoulder joint, leading to stiffness, swelling, and chronic discomfort
  • Postural strain: Prolonged poor posture, especially in individuals working long hours at a desk or computer, can put undue stress on the shoulder muscles, leading to pain
  • Trauma or overuse: Falls, sports injuries, or excessive strain from repetitive tasks can lead to sprains, strains, or even dislocations, contributing to shoulder pain

Home remedies for shoulder pain*

Try these simple and effective remedies to relieve shoulder pain:

Cold therapy with peppermint

Apply an ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth to the painful shoulder for 10–15 minutes to reduce inflammation. For an added soothing effect, add a few drops of diluted peppermint oil to the cloth.

Essential oil shoulder massage

Mix a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender with a carrier oil (such as almond or coconut oil). Gently massage this blend into the shoulder area to help relax tight muscles and alleviate pain.

Targeted acupressure

Using your fingertips, apply gentle pressure on specific acupressure points around the shoulder (such as near the deltoid area or the outer shoulder blade). This may help improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

Herbal compress with ginger and turmeric

Prepare an herbal compress by steeping ginger and turmeric in hot water, then soaking a clean cloth in the infusion. Once it cools to a comfortable temperature, apply it over the shoulder to harness the anti-inflammatory properties of these herbs.

Gentle mobility and stretching exercises

Perform controlled shoulder stretches, like the pendulum swing or arm circles, to maintain joint mobility and gradually strengthen the surrounding muscles. Ensure movements are slow and stop if discomfort increases.

* This content is only meant for educational purposes and does not replace a consultation with an expert. We surely hope it helps you though! You can book an online or in-clinic appointment to consult one of our Ayurvedic doctors.

Book a consultation with us

If your shoulder pain persists beyond a few weeks, significantly interferes with your daily activities, or progressively worsens, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. At Samyoga Ayurvedic Heritage, our experienced doctors will assess your condition and recommend personalised treatments tailored to your specific needs.

In-clinic consultationOnline consultation

We charge ₹400/- per consultation. One consultation usually lasts for an hour.