I'm feeling really stressed today, and now I have this pain in my right shoulder and arm. It's so bad that I can't even lift my arm above my head without it hurting. What could be causing this, and should I be worried?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

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The shoulder and arm pain you're experiencing, especially if it's provoked by stress and affects your ability to lift your arm, could be related to musculoskeletal issues such as a strain or tendonitis. However, if there is any concern that the pain might be cardiac-related, it's important to rule out conditions like angina, especially given your stress. I recommend visiting your healthcare provider to evaluate the cause of your pain and ensure appropriate treatment. They may suggest rest, ice, and possibly anti-inflammatory medications, or they may perform further tests to rule out any cardiac involvement.

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Answered 04/07/2025

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Possible Causes: a. Muscle strain or tension due to stress. b. Rotator cuff injury or tendinitis. c. Nerve impingement or cervical radiculopathy.
Immediate Actions: a. Rest the affected arm and avoid lifting. b. Apply ice to reduce inflammation. c. Consider over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen.
When to Seek Medical Attention: a. If pain persists or worsens. b. If you experience numbness or tingling. c. If there's significant swelling or redness.
Recommendation: a. Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation if symptoms do not improve.

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