Shoulder pain can strike anyone, but certain groups are particularly vulnerable, especially active individuals, gym-goers, runners, and those with jobs that require a lot of overhead reaching and manual labor, such as construction workers or painters.
This discomfort can be especially troublesome at night, disrupting sleep and making it difficult to recover fully from the day’s activities.
Let’s dive into how to prevent shoulder pain at night with these top tips, ensuring you wake up refreshed and pain-free.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is often caused by overuse injuries. These conditions arise from repetitive stress on the shoulder joint, poor posture, and muscle imbalances.
Here are some common injuries:
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis:
This occurs when the tendons in the rotator cuff become inflamed due to repetitive overhead activities. Symptoms include pain and weakness in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm.
Shoulder Impingement:
This happens when the shoulder blade exerts excessive pressure on the underlying soft tissues when the arm is lifted. It often leads to pain during overhead movements.
Bursitis:
The bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint, can become inflamed from repetitive motion or prolonged pressure, causing significant pain and swelling.
Frozen Shoulder:
Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, limiting the range of motion.
Understanding these common injuries is the first step in preventing shoulder pain at night. Now, let’s explore actionable tips to alleviate and prevent this pain.
Top Tips to Prevent Shoulder Pain at Night
Maintain Proper Posture Throughout the Day
Keep your back straight and shoulders back, whether you’re sitting, standing, or moving around. Use ergonomic chairs and avoid slouching.
Benefit: Good posture reduces the strain on your shoulder muscles and joints, preventing discomfort.
Incorporate Strengthening Exercises
Include exercises like shoulder presses, rows, and external rotations in your workout routine. These exercises target the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles, enhancing shoulder stability.
Benefit: Strengthening the muscles around your shoulder provides better support and stability.
Stretch Regularly
Perform shoulder stretches daily, such as the doorway stretch, cross-body shoulder stretch, and triceps stretch. Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds without bouncing.
Benefit: Stretching improves flexibility and reduces muscle tension.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques
When lifting objects, keep them close to your body, bend your knees, and avoid twisting your torso. Engage your core muscles for added support.
Benefit: Proper techniques prevent undue stress on your shoulder joints.
Adjust Your Sleeping Position
Avoid sleeping on your affected shoulder. Instead, lie on your back or the opposite side, using a pillow to support your arm. You can also place a pillow under your knees for added back support.
Benefit: The right sleeping position can prevent shoulder pain and promote better sleep quality.
Apply Ice or Heat Therapy
Apply an ice pack to your shoulder for 15-20 minutes after activity. Use a heating pad before bed to relax muscles.
Benefit: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat soothes muscle tension.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Balanced Diet
Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consume a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Benefit: Proper hydration and nutrition support muscle function and recovery.
Take Regular Breaks from Overhead Activities
If your job or sport involves a lot of overhead activity, take short breaks to rest your shoulders. Use this time to stretch and relax the muscles.
Benefit: Frequent breaks prevent overuse injuries and allow your muscles to recover.
Use Ergonomic Tools
Use tools and equipment designed to support proper body mechanics. This includes ergonomic keyboards, mouse devices, and adjustable workstations.
Benefit: Ergonomic tools reduce the strain on your shoulders during daily activities.
Seek Professional Help
If you experience persistent shoulder pain, consult a physical therapist or healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plan.
Benefit: Professional guidance ensures you’re using the right techniques and treatments.
Request A Free Discovery Visit
Summer sports or overhead activities causing shoulder pain? We’ve got you covered!
This June, Elevate Performance Therapy is excited to offer a FREE Discovery Visit where you get to meet the team, discuss your pain story, see if we’re the right fit and explore what treatment options are available.
This visit is designed for anyone who seeks clarity on the root of, and solutions for their shoulder pain, wishes to learn effective strategies to ease discomfort, and longs to get back to their favorite activities and day-to-day life.
Whether you’re lifting weights, serving aces on the tennis court, or just reaching for that top shelf, shoulder pain shouldn’t hold you back.
This offer is perfect for:
- Athletes and fitness enthusiasts aiming to prevent shoulder injuries.
- Overhead workers like painters and construction professionals.
- Anyone seeking an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reclaim your strength and mobility. Contact us today and start your journey back to pain-free shoulders!
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