Left Shoulder and Arm Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Left shoulder and arm pain can affect anyone, from professionals working long hours at a desk to athletes or elderly individuals. It can start as a dull ache or a sharp pain that spreads down the arm, making everyday activities difficult. Understanding what causes this pain and how to treat it early can prevent long-term discomfort and complications.

What Causes Left Shoulder and Arm Pain?

Left shoulder and arm pain can arise from several underlying conditions, ranging from muscle strain to serious heart-related issues. Identifying the right cause is the first step toward effective treatment.

1. Muscle Strain or Overuse
One of the most common causes of shoulder and arm pain is muscle strain due to repetitive activities such as lifting heavy objects, exercising, or working on a computer for long hours. Continuous strain on the shoulder muscles can lead to inflammation and pain that extends down the arm.

2. Rotator Cuff Injury
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. An injury or tear in the rotator cuff can cause sharp pain, weakness, and limited movement in the shoulder and arm.

3. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder leads to stiffness and pain that worsens gradually. It often occurs after a period of inactivity, surgery, or an injury. The pain may radiate down the arm and limit shoulder mobility significantly.

4. Pinched Nerve or Cervical Spondylosis
A pinched nerve in the neck or upper spine can cause radiating pain down the left arm. Conditions like cervical spondylosis or herniated discs can compress nerves, leading to tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arm.

5. Tendinitis or Bursitis
Tendinitis is inflammation of the shoulder tendons, while bursitis affects the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints. Both can cause pain that worsens with movement or pressure on the shoulder.

6. Heart-Related Causes
Pain in the left shoulder and arm can sometimes be a sign of a heart problem, such as angina or a heart attack. This type of pain usually occurs with symptoms like chest discomfort, breathlessness, dizziness, or nausea. If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Common Symptoms of Left Shoulder and Arm Pain

The symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but some signs indicate when to seek medical help.

• Persistent or severe pain that worsens with movement
• Tingling or numbness in the arm or fingers
• Weakness in the shoulder or inability to lift the arm
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the shoulder joint
• Pain that spreads from the chest to the arm or jaw (possible heart-related symptom)

Recognizing these symptoms early helps prevent complications and ensures timely treatment.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a doctor if:

• The pain persists for more than a few days despite rest or home care
• You experience sudden, severe pain following an injury
• There is swelling or deformity around the shoulder joint
• You notice weakness or loss of motion in the arm
• You suspect the pain could be heart-related

Delaying treatment may worsen the condition or lead to chronic pain and stiffness.

Diagnosis of Shoulder and Arm Pain

A detailed diagnosis helps doctors identify the underlying issue accurately. At Continental Hospitals, our specialists use advanced diagnostic techniques to determine the root cause of your shoulder and arm pain. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Physical Examination: To assess movement, flexibility, and muscle strength.
• X-rays: To detect fractures, bone spurs, or arthritis.
• MRI or CT Scan: To identify soft tissue injuries like rotator cuff tears or disc problems.
• Electromyography (EMG): To evaluate nerve function and detect nerve compression.
• Blood Tests: To check for infections or inflammatory conditions.

Treatment Options for Left Shoulder and Arm Pain

Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the pain. The goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence.

1. Rest and Activity Modification
Avoiding activities that strain the shoulder allows the muscles and tendons to heal naturally.

2. Medications
Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications help reduce swelling and discomfort.

3. Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation exercises are essential for improving flexibility, strengthening muscles, and restoring range of motion. Physiotherapists at Continental Hospitals create customized plans for faster recovery.

4. Injections
In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to relieve inflammation and pain in the shoulder joint.

5. Surgery
If conservative treatments do not help, surgical options like arthroscopy or rotator cuff repair may be recommended to correct structural problems.

6. Treating Heart-Related Causes
If your shoulder and arm pain are linked to heart disease, doctors will focus on managing the cardiac condition through medication, lifestyle changes, or specialized interventions.

Preventing Shoulder and Arm Pain

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps to protect your shoulders and arms from injury or strain:Maintain proper posture while sitting or working on a computer

• Warm up before exercise or physical activity
• Avoid lifting heavy objects incorrectly
• Take breaks during repetitive tasks
• Strengthen shoulder and neck muscles through regular exercise

Why Choose Continental Hospitals for Shoulder and Arm Pain Treatment?

Continental Hospitals, located in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, is one of the leading multispecialty healthcare providers known for excellence in diagnosis and treatment. The hospital is JCI-accredited, ensuring that patients receive care that meets the highest international standards of safety and quality.

Our Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine offers world-class facilities for managing shoulder and arm pain. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging systems, modern operation theatres, and specialized rehabilitation centers. Our multidisciplinary team includes experienced orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and pain management experts who work together to ensure comprehensive recovery.

Patients trust Continental Hospitals for its patient-first approach, transparent communication, and personalized care. The hospital’s commitment to excellence and innovation has made it one of the top choices for orthopedic and musculoskeletal treatments in Hyderabad.

If You Suffer from Left Shoulder and Arm Pain

If you are experiencing pain in your left shoulder or arm, it is essential to seek timely medical attention rather than ignoring it. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term stiffness, nerve damage, or cardiac complications.

At Continental Hospitals, our expert Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Specialists provide advanced care for all types of shoulder and arm conditions, ensuring lasting relief and full mobility.

Book your consultation today with the best orthopedic specialists at Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad, and take the first step toward pain-free movement.