Why does my shoulder hurt all the time?

Dr. Molly, 
​I’m very concerned about my right shoulder, it hurts all the time. It doesn’t matter if it’s hanging by my side or if I’m moving it, my shoulder hurts. It’s not like I’m in severe pain it’s more like it’s a tired or nagging pain. I keep moving and changing positions but I can’t find a comfortable position.  Even at night it aches. It’s not bad enough that I can’t move but it’s just constantly there, and at the end of the day my arm just feels tired. I don’t know how to make it stop. I’m really worried that if I go to the doctor they’re gonna tell me I need surgery or injections. Is that what you think also. Any help or clarification would be nice.  
Sincerely, 

My response:
I can only imagine how scary it is to wake up one day to an arm that is constantly uncomfortable with no way to make it better. Tossing and turning all night, constantly changing position throughout the day to try to find at least one position that feels good. I’m sorry you are having to worry about a possible surgery and all the things that would follow being out of work, taking care of your family. 

It sounds like your rotator cuff might be injured, which is something that I help with everyday.  Based on the information you’ve given in your email, you don’t need to jump right to surgery. However, without a formal evaluation it’s hard to tell you specifically what is causing your shoulder to be this uncomfortable or to give you specific advice. 

Your rotator cuff helps hold your arm bone in its socket. So these suggestions will help support your arm reducing the work of your rotator cuff. 

While standing try:

1. Crossing your arm across your chest 
2. Place your right hand in your right pocket 
3. Loop your right thumb in your belt loop

While sitting try:

1. Hug a pillow in a manner that supports your elbow
2. Use arm rests when you can. 

The last suggestion is the hardest…..relax your shoulders. Try not to guard your arm by shrugging or pulling your shoulder forward.

I’m alway in favor of icing a tired, achy shoulder for 10 minutes at the end of the day.

If you would like to discuss your specific shoulder injury in person, but you're not quite sure if physical therapy will help you. I offer a Free Discovery visit. It is just 20 minutes of your time. This would give us an opportunity to meet face to face, look at your shoulder, and see if we are a good fit to get your shoulder healthy without a surgery or injections. 
 I hope I’ve answered your question. Let me know if you have any additional questions or if you would like to schedule your discovery visit. 
To your health, 
Dr. Molly 

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