Left Shoulder Pain in Women: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Left shoulder pain is something many women experience. It can be a slight ache or a strong pain. Most of the time, it is caused by issues with the muscles, bones, or joints in the shoulder. But sometimes, it can mean something serious, like a heart problem. Knowing the causes, signs, and treatments for left shoulder pain can help you manage it well and know when to see a doctor.

What Causes Left Shoulder Pain in Women?

There are different reasons why women get left shoulder pain. Here are some of the usual causes:

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are a common cause of left shoulder pain in women. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder stable and help it move. When these muscles or tendons get hurt, torn, or inflamed from overuse, sudden movements, or lifting heavy objects, it can cause pain, weakness, and trouble moving the arm. The pain often gets worse at night or during certain activities.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, making it hard to move. It usually happens in women between 40 and 60 years old, especially those with diabetes or thyroid problems. The shoulder’s connective tissue thickens and tightens, limiting movement and causing pain that often gets worse at night. Frozen shoulder develops in stages, starting with increasing pain and loss of motion, then a phase where the pain might ease but stiffness remains, and finally a gradual return of movement over months or years. Physical therapy is the main treatment, and recovery can take a long time, but most people improve with proper care.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common cause of left shoulder pain in women and can make the shoulder swollen, stiff, and painful. There are two main types that affect the shoulder: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage cushioning the bones wears away over time, causing the bones to rub against each other and leading to pain and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and damage. Both types can cause pain during movement, especially at night, and may make it harder to use the shoulder fully.

Bursitis or Tendonitis

Bursitis and tendonitis are common reasons for left shoulder pain in women. Bursitis happens when the small sacs filled with fluid, called bursae, that cushion the shoulder, become swollen and irritated. Tendonitis is when the tendons, which connect muscles to bones, get irritated or inflamed. Both problems can be caused by doing the same movements over and over, using the shoulder too much, or getting hurt. They can cause pain, swelling, and soreness, especially when you move your arm or lift things. If not treated, they can make it hard to move your shoulder and do daily tasks.

Heart-Related Issues

Sometimes, pain in the left shoulder can be a sign of heart problems, like a heart attack. The pain might spread to the arm, neck, or jaw, not just the shoulder. Women may also have other symptoms such as chest pain, trouble breathing, feeling sick, sweating, or feeling very tired. Heart symptoms in women can be less obvious than in men, which means women might wait longer to get help.

Gallbladder Problems

Gallbladder problems can sometimes cause pain in the left shoulder, even though the gallbladder is on the right side of the abdomen. This happens because of "referred pain," where pain from one area is felt in another. When the gallbladder becomes inflamed or develops gallstones, it can irritate nerves that send pain signals to the shoulder. Besides shoulder pain, gallbladder issues often cause symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and digestive problems. If left shoulder pain is ongoing or comes with these other signs, it’s important to see a doctor to find out the cause and get treatment.

Nerve Compression

Nerve compression can cause left shoulder pain in women when nerves traveling from the neck to the shoulder get squeezed or irritated. A common cause is a herniated disc in the cervical spine, where the soft inner part of a disc leaks out and presses on nearby nerves. This can lead to sharp or burning pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand, and may also cause numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Another cause is thoracic outlet syndrome, where nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib become compressed, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness in the shoulder and arm. These nerve issues can be due to injury, repetitive movements, poor posture, or structural differences, and the pain may be constant or come and go.

Injury or Overuse

Doing the same movements over and over or having poor posture can put a lot of stress on the shoulders. This can cause pain in the muscles, tendons, and joints. For example, lifting heavy things, carrying a bag on one shoulder, or playing sports that use your arms a lot can make your shoulder hurt. Over time, this stress can cause swelling, muscle strains, or small tears in the tissues, making the shoulder feel sore or stiff.

Symptoms Associated with Left Shoulder Pain

Left shoulder pain can feel different depending on the cause. Some common symptoms are:

Localized Pain

Localized pain means the pain is in one specific part of the left shoulder. This pain can feel sharp, dull, or throbbing, and it might be there all the time or come and go. Usually, the pain gets worse when you move your arm, lift things, or do certain activities. In women, this pain can be caused by things like muscle strain, tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis, or an injury to the shoulder. It’s important to notice what the pain feels like and what makes it worse, as this can help doctors figure out what’s causing it.

Stiffness or Limited Range of Motion

Having trouble moving your shoulder or feeling tightness is common for women. This can happen because of conditions like frozen shoulder, where the tissues around the joint get thick and tight, or arthritis, which causes swelling and pain in the joint. Both of these problems can make it hard to lift your arm, reach up, or do daily tasks, and they can really affect your quality of life.

Radiating Pain

Sometimes, pain spreads to your arm, neck, or chest. This is called radiating pain. It can happen because of nerve problems like pinched nerves or herniated discs, which send pain signals through the nerves. Heart problems, such as angina or a heart attack, can also make pain move from the chest to the left shoulder, arm, or neck. These symptoms can be signs of serious health problems, so it is important to pay attention and get medical help quickly if needed.

Swelling or Redness

Your shoulder may look swollen or red if it is inflamed from an injury, arthritis, or bursitis. Sometimes, swelling and redness can also mean there is an infection that needs medical care. Pay attention to these signs, as they can help show what is causing your shoulder pain and if you should see a doctor.

Tingling or Numbness

Nerve issues can cause tingling or numbness in your shoulder, arm, or hand. These feelings can be mild or strong, and they might happen all the time or only sometimes. Tingling or numbness could mean there are problems with nerves in your neck or upper back that affect your shoulder. It is important to pay attention to these symptoms and talk to a doctor if they do not go away or get worse.

Pain at Rest or Night

Pain that doesn’t go away when you’re resting or sleeping can be caused by injuries or arthritis. This kind of pain can make it hard to get comfortable at night, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Ongoing pain while resting may mean there is a problem like a rotator cuff injury, tendonitis, or osteoarthritis that needs a doctor’s attention. If the pain keeps going or gets worse, especially at night, you should see a healthcare professional to find out what’s wrong and get the right treatment.

Associated Systemic Symptoms

If you have chest pain, trouble breathing, dizziness, nausea, or heavy sweating along with shoulder pain, it could mean there is a serious problem like a heart issue. These signs might suggest a heart attack or another emergency, so you should get medical help right away if you notice them with shoulder pain.

Diagnosing Left Shoulder Pain in Women

Finding out why your left shoulder hurts usually takes several steps. Doctors use your medical history, a physical check-up, and some tests to understand what’s causing the pain.

1. Medical History Review

The doctor will ask many questions about your shoulder pain. They want to know how it feels, how long you’ve had it, and if any activities or injuries might have caused it. They’ll also check for other symptoms like chest pain, trouble breathing, or numbness to see if something else, like a heart or nerve problem, could be causing the pain.

2. Physical Examination

Your doctor will carefully check your shoulder and the nearby areas. They will feel for sore or swollen spots and see if you can move your arm and shoulder easily. They may also test your nerves and blood flow around the shoulder. During the exam, your doctor might ask you to do certain movements to see which ones cause pain and to check how well your shoulder moves. They may gently press on different parts of your shoulder, neck, and upper back to find where it hurts. Your doctor might also compare both shoulders to look for differences in strength, flexibility, or how they look. If needed, they may check for signs of other problems, like heart or lung issues, that can also cause shoulder pain.

3. Imaging Studies

Doctors may order X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds to get pictures of your shoulder. X-rays show bones and joints and can detect fractures or arthritis. MRIs and CT scans give detailed views of soft tissues like muscles and tendons, helping spot injuries like rotator cuff tears or frozen shoulder. Ultrasounds show soft tissues while moving.

4. Electrodiagnostic Tests

If your doctor thinks there might be a problem with your nerves, they might do special tests like electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies. In these tests, small sensors or electrodes are put on your skin to send gentle electrical signals to your muscles or nerves. These tests check how well your nerves and muscles are working. This helps the doctor find out if you have nerve damage, a muscle problem, or another reason for your shoulder pain. The results can help decide what treatment you need and find the exact cause of your symptoms.

5. Blood Tests

Sometimes, doctors use blood tests to figure out what is causing left shoulder pain in women. These tests can look for infections, swelling, or problems with the immune system. For example, blood tests can help find diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or gout, which can cause shoulder pain. Blood tests can also help rule out other causes by checking for signs of swelling or certain antibodies. This information helps doctors make the right diagnosis and choose the best treatment.

6. Cardiac Evaluation

If your doctor thinks your shoulder pain might be caused by a heart issue, they will do some tests to find out more. These tests can include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check how your heart is working and blood tests to look for signs of heart damage. The doctor will also ask about your medical history, any risk factors you have, and other symptoms like trouble breathing, chest pain, or feeling sick. All of this helps the doctor figure out if your symptoms are related to heart problems, such as a heart attack, and make sure you get the right treatment quickly.

Treatment Options for Left Shoulder Pain

To treat left shoulder pain, it’s important to first find out what is causing it. Then, different treatments can be used to help you feel better. Here are some common ways doctors treat shoulder pain:

1. Rest and Activity Modification

If your shoulder hurts, let it rest and avoid movements that could make it worse. Don’t lift heavy things, carry bags, or play sports that use your arm a lot. Your doctor may suggest gentle stretches and simple exercises to help your shoulder get stronger and move better again. Sometimes, you might need a sling or support to protect your shoulder while it heals. Always follow your doctor’s advice to recover safely and well.

2. Medications

For left shoulder pain, you can take medicines you buy over the counter, like ibuprofen or naproxen, to help with pain and swelling. These medicines reduce inflammation and make you feel better if the pain is mild to moderate. If these don’t work well enough, a doctor might give you stronger medicines, like prescription anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants. Sometimes, doctors may use injections called corticosteroids to reduce pain and swelling right where it hurts. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine to make sure it’s safe and right for you.

3. Physical Therapy

A physical therapist can help you with special exercises and stretches to make your shoulder stronger and more flexible. These exercises can help you move better and feel less pain. The therapist might also use hands-on techniques and apply heat or ice to help with pain and swelling. They can teach you how to keep good posture and avoid hurting your shoulder again. You'll get a plan to do exercises at home, and if you do them regularly, your shoulders will get stronger and feel better over time.

4. Ice and Heat Therapy

Putting ice on your shoulder can help reduce swelling and make the pain feel less. It is usually good to use an ice pack for 15-20 minutes a few times a day, especially after an injury or if your shoulder is swollen. Heat can help relax tight muscles and make your shoulder feel less stiff by improving blood flow. You can use a heating pad or a warm towel for 15-20 minutes to help with pain. Your doctor may suggest using both ice and heat at different times, depending on your pain and why your shoulder hurts. Always follow your doctor's advice to avoid making the injury worse.

5. Injections

If your shoulder is very swollen or hurts for a long time, your doctor might give you a shot called a corticosteroid. This shot goes into your shoulder and can quickly help with pain and swelling. Doctors usually suggest these shots if other treatments like rest, physical therapy, or pills have not helped enough. Corticosteroids work by lowering swelling in the joint, which can make it easier to move and less painful. Your doctor will talk to you about the benefits and possible side effects of these shots, and may limit how often you get them to avoid risks. Sometimes, shots are used with other treatments to help you get better and return to your normal activities sooner.

6. Surgical Intervention

Sometimes, surgery is needed if your pain is caused by a serious issue like a tear or arthritis. In these situations, treatments like medicine or physical therapy might not work, so surgery is necessary. Surgery repairs the problem by fixing torn tissues, removing damaged areas, or replacing the joint if needed. This can reduce pain and help your shoulder move better. After surgery, you will usually need a rehab program to help you get your strength and movement back.

Preventing Left Shoulder Pain

There are many things you can do to stop left shoulder pain from getting worse or coming back. Here are some easy tips to help prevent it:

1. Practice Good Posture

Good posture helps keep your shoulders healthy and can stop pain, especially in your left shoulder. When you sit, relax your shoulders, pull them back, and don’t slouch or lean forward. Use a chair that supports your lower back and lets your feet rest flat on the floor. When you stand, stand up straight with your head up, shoulders back, and your stomach pulled in a little. Try to balance your weight on both feet. When lifting things, bend your knees and keep your back straight. Hold things close to your body and don’t twist your upper body, as this can hurt your shoulders. Doing these things regularly can help protect your shoulders and lower your risk of pain or injury.

2. Strengthen and Stretch

Doing regular exercises that stretch and strengthen your shoulder, back, and neck muscles can help stop pain. When your muscles are stronger and more flexible, they support your shoulder better and help prevent problems. Try adding different stretching and strengthening exercises to your routine to help you move better, keep your shoulder stable, and lower your chance of getting hurt. Good exercises include shoulder rotations, gentle neck stretches, and using a resistance band. Do these exercises several times a week for the best results. Also, watch your posture and try not to do the same shoulder movements over and over to avoid pain.

3. Avoid Overuse

Repeating the same shoulder movements too much can make your muscles hurt. To lower your chance of getting hurt, change up what you do and try not to repeat the same movement for a long time. Take breaks often when doing tasks that use your shoulder a lot, so your muscles can rest. Stretching before and after using your shoulder also helps keep it flexible and healthy.

4. Choose Ergonomic Tools

Using ergonomic tools can help keep your left shoulder healthy by supporting your body in the right way and reducing muscle strain. For example, a good chair with lower back support helps you sit up straight and stops you from slouching, which can strain your shoulders. Ergonomic keyboards and adjustable desks help keep your arms and shoulders relaxed, so you don’t tense up or overuse your shoulder muscles. Making these small changes in your workspace can make a big difference in preventing shoulder pain and keeping your shoulders comfortable over time.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight puts more stress on your joints and muscles, including your shoulders. This can cause pain and discomfort over time. Eating a balanced diet and staying active can help you control your weight. This takes pressure off your shoulder joints and helps keep all your joints healthy, making left shoulder pain less likely in the future.

6. Manage Underlying Conditions

Shoulder pain can sometimes be caused by other health problems like arthritis or diabetes. Taking care of these health issues is important because it can help lower swelling and pain in your shoulder. Regular doctor visits, following your treatment plan, eating healthy, and staying active can all help stop shoulder pain from getting worse or coming back.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, left shoulder pain goes away on its own with rest and home care. But there are times when it’s important to see a doctor. You should get medical help if you notice any of these signs:

• Severe or Persistent Pain: If your pain is very strong or does not get better after a few days, and resting or using over-the-counter medicine does not help, you should see a doctor. A healthcare professional can check your symptoms, find out what is causing the pain, and suggest the best treatment. Sometimes, severe or long-lasting pain can be a sign of a serious problem that needs quick medical attention.

• Limited Mobility: If you have trouble moving your shoulder or it feels stiff for a long time, you might have a frozen shoulder or a rotator cuff injury. These problems usually need a doctor’s care. If you keep having pain, can’t lift your arm easily, or the stiffness doesn’t get better with rest and gentle exercise, you should see a healthcare professional. Getting help early can stop things from getting worse and help you recover faster.

• Radiating Pain: If your pain starts to move to your neck, arm, or chest, you should see a doctor right away. This kind of pain might mean you have a nerve problem, like a pinched nerve, or it could be a sign of a serious heart problem, such as angina or a heart attack. If you also have trouble breathing, feel dizzy, or suddenly feel weak along with the pain, get emergency medical help immediately, as these could be signs of a life-threatening problem.

• Numbness, Tingling, or Weakness: If your shoulder or arm feels numb, tingly, or weak, it might mean you have a nerve problem, like a pinched nerve. You could also have pain or trouble moving your arm. You should see a doctor so they can check you, do tests if needed, and find out what is causing the problem. Finding and treating the issue early can help you get better faster and avoid more problems.

• Signs of Infection: If your shoulder hurts and is also red, warm, swollen, or you have a fever, see a doctor right away. These can be signs of an infection. Shoulder infections can get worse quickly and may need urgent treatment, like antibiotics or sometimes surgery. Seeing a doctor quickly helps prevent problems and gives you the best chance to get better. Do not ignore these symptoms, especially if you also have chills, feel very tired, or your pain is getting worse.

• Heart Attack Symptoms: If you have left shoulder pain along with chest pain, nausea, lightheadedness, or unusual tiredness, seek emergency medical care right away. These could be signs of a heart attack, which needs quick treatment to prevent serious harm or death. Sometimes, the pain spreads from the chest to the left shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw. Other symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, or dizziness may also occur. Don’t ignore these warning signs—getting help fast can save your life and improve your recovery.

If you're experiencing left shoulder pain or discomfort, the team at Volusia Medical Center is here to help. Our team of medical professionals is dedicated to diagnosing and treating your pain with personalized care. Contact us and schedule a consultation today. Take the first step toward relief and improved mobility. We are here to help you find relief from your left shoulder pain or discomfort and improve your mobility.

Conclusion

Left shoulder pain in women can be anything from a little bit of pain to a symptom of a serious condition. It's important to know what can cause left shoulder pain and to recognize the symptoms that are associated with it. This can help you to treat the problem and to prevent it from happening again. If you are having left shoulder pain, it's important to go to the doctor as soon as possible. This can help to prevent complications and can help to make sure that you get the right treatment for your left shoulder pain.

FAQs

1. Can stress cause left shoulder pain?

• Yes, stress can cause left shoulder pain. When stressed, the muscles in your shoulders and neck often tighten and become tense, which can lead to discomfort and pain. This muscle tightness may feel like knots or stiffness in the shoulder area and can sometimes spread to the neck or upper back. The more stress you experience, the more your muscles may tighten, creating a cycle of pain and tension. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, good posture, and physical therapy can help ease this pain and prevent it from coming back.

2. Is left shoulder pain a sign of a heart attack?

• Yes, left shoulder pain can be a sign of a heart attack, especially if it happens along with chest pain, nausea, lightheadedness, or unusual tiredness. Sometimes, the pain from a heart attack spreads from the chest to the left shoulder, arm, neck, jaw, or back because the nerves in these areas share pathways. This shoulder pain may feel sharp, dull, or like a throbbing ache and can come on suddenly or slowly.

3. How can I relieve left shoulder pain at home?

• To relieve left shoulder pain at home, start by resting your shoulder and avoiding activities that make the pain worse. Applying ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. After the first couple of days, you can try heat therapy with a heating pad to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can temporarily ease pain and inflammation. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and support your shoulder, while massage may reduce muscle tension. Remember to maintain good posture to prevent further strain and, if pain persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional.

4. What are the best exercises for left shoulder pain?

• The best exercises for left shoulder pain are simple stretches and gentle movements that help loosen your shoulder and make it stronger. Try stretching your shoulder by pulling one arm across your chest to feel a gentle stretch in the back of your shoulder. You can also do shoulder rolls by slowly rolling your shoulders in circles to relax tight muscles. Another good exercise is the pendulum swing—lean forward and let your arm hang down, then swing it gently in small circles. Wall pushes or doorway stretches help open your chest and improve your posture. Doing these exercises little by little every day can help your shoulder feel better and get stronger without causing more pain.

5. When should I worry about left shoulder pain?

• Left shoulder pain shouldn’t be ignored. If the pain is very strong, lasts for several days, or comes with other symptoms like chest pain or trouble breathing, it’s time to see a doctor. It’s always better to be safe and get checked out than to wait and risk something serious. If you can’t move your shoulder, feel numbness or weakness, or if the area is swollen and warm, get medical help right away. Remember, paying attention to your body can keep you healthy and prevent bigger problems.