As you grow older, you may notice your muscles and joints becoming stiffer. The challenging part is that joint uneasiness might occur even in the absence of a distinct injury, so you need to remain vigilant at all times.
Joint uneasiness could affect various parts of your body, including your shoulders. Your shoulder plays a pivotal role in the mobility of your upper body, so any kind of ache or discomfort could be quite inconvenient.
Upon experiencing discomfort in your shoulders, it’s best to promptly seek advice from a physician or an orthopedic specialist. Physical therapy is also highly effective; investing in Waterford physical therapy could significantly help in alleviating your shoulder discomfort.
In addition to physical therapy, there are also alternative methods for you to address shoulder discomfort, even on your own. Committing to this routine increases your chances of combating shoulder discomfort.
1. Take It Easy
When the initial episode of shoulder discomfort strikes, it might indicate that your workouts or daily routines are too strenuous for your body to handle. There’s no shame in taking it easy, especially if you’re already overexerting yourself.
While taking a full day or even several days of rest is the best short-term approach, most of us still need to carry out some tasks. If you’re experiencing shoulder discomfort (or discomfort in any part of your body), it’s advisable to lighten your workload and take a break for a while.
Even after fully recovering from the injury and experiencing no pain at all, physical therapists would still advise a gradual return to your normal routine. You still run the risk of re-aggravating your shoulder injury, so you’ll find yourself back at the starting point if that occurs.
2. Consider OTC Pain Relievers If Necessary
Upon initial shoulder discomfort, it’s recommended to apply ice to the affected area for the first 48 hours. After this period, you can switch to using a hot compress for the following days. However, this treatment may not be sufficient to alleviate your shoulder discomfort.
As previously mentioned, some of us need to work or carry out various chores despite the shoulder discomfort. In such cases, you can always take over-the-counter (OTC) medications to alleviate the pain. OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen are the most commonly used medications for shoulder discomfort.
However, if the pain persists, it’s important to consult your doctor or orthopedic specialist. There may be an underlying condition causing the pain, so it’s something that should be taken seriously.
3. Engage in Mobility Workouts
Participating in mobility exercises serves more as a preventive measure than a cure. Simple, equipment-free exercises such as an across-the-chest stretch, chest expansion, seated twists, shoulder circles, neck release, and child’s pose can go a long way in improving your shoulder mobility.
If you’re experiencing any shoulder discomfort, be sure to consult a physician before performing these stretches. In the event of muscle strain, there may be certain exercises that you should avoid in order to prevent putting additional stress on the affected muscle.
4. Stay Active But Avoid Impact on the Shoulder
Rest is still the best approach moving forward, but it’s important to avoid overexerting yourself. Overworking your shoulder may not alleviate the tightness you’re experiencing, so it’s recommended to move it occasionally.
Naturally, this entails avoiding any impact on your shoulder. You should also refrain from lifting heavy objects until you have fully recuperated from your shoulder injury.
