Dull or Aching Pain in One Of the Shoulders – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Dull or Aching Pain in One Shoulder – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

A dull or aching pain in one shoulder can significantly impact daily activities, limiting movement and causing persistent discomfort. Whether caused by muscle strain, joint inflammation, or underlying medical conditions, shoulder pain should not be ignored. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our orthopedic specialists provide expert diagnosis and advanced treatments to restore mobility and alleviate pain effectively.

Causes of Dull or Aching Shoulder Pain

Several factors may contribute to persistent shoulder discomfort, including:

• Musculoskeletal Causes
  • Rotator Cuff Injury – Inflammation or tears in the shoulder tendons due to overuse or aging.
  • Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – Stiffness and limited movement due to joint capsule thickening.
  • Muscle Strains or Sprains – Overexertion, poor posture, or repetitive strain leading to discomfort.
• Joint & Bone-Related Conditions
  • Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear of the shoulder joint causing chronic pain and stiffness.
  • Shoulder Impingement Syndrome – Compression of tendons due to improper movement or inflammation.
  • Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning the shoulder joint.
• Nerve & Referred Pain Conditions
  • Pinched Nerve (Cervical Radiculopathy) – Nerve compression in the neck radiating pain to the shoulder.
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome – Compression of nerves or blood vessels leading to aching pain.
  • Heart or Gallbladder Issues – Sometimes, shoulder pain may be referred from internal organ conditions.

Diagnosis of Shoulder Pain

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of pain, including:

• Physical Examination – Assessing range of motion, tenderness, and joint function.
• X-Ray & MRI Scans – Detecting fractures, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.
• Ultrasound Imaging – Identifying tendon inflammation and bursitis.
• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Studies – Evaluating nerve-related shoulder pain.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

• Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Strengthening exercises to improve mobility and reduce pain.
• Medications & Pain Management – Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or corticosteroid injections.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures – Arthroscopic surgery for severe rotator cuff tears or impingement.
• Lifestyle Modifications & Ergonomic Advice – Posture correction and activity adjustments to prevent strain.

Related Treatments

• Frozen Shoulder