What is chronic shoulder pain?
Chronic shoulder pain is persistent discomfort, stiffness, or pain in the shoulder region that lasts longer than three months. It can affect your ability to move freely, sleep comfortably, and carry out daily activities. Unlike acute shoulder pain caused by a sudden injury, chronic pain usually develops gradually and can worsen over time.
What causes chronic shoulder pain?
Various conditions can lead to chronic shoulder pain, including:
- Arthritis (such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Rotator cuff injuries or tendinopathy
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Bursitis or inflammation of the shoulder bursa
- Poor posture or muscle imbalances
- Nerve compression from the neck (cervical radiculopathy)
- Previous injuries or surgeries that have not healed well
These conditions can lead to chronic neck and shoulder pain, and sometimes even pain between the shoulder blades, which requires targeted treatments and exercises.
Causes, symptoms, treatments and exercises
Cause
Chronic shoulder pain often arises from repeated strain, inflammation, age-related wear and tear, or underlying conditions such as arthritis or tendon degeneration.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- A dull or aching pain in the shoulder
- Pain that worsens with movement or at night
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
- Numbness or tingling if nerves are involved
Treatments
A treatment plan for chronic pain should include, among other things:
- Physical therapy and targeted exercises
- Hands-on therapy and soft tissue mobilization
- Non-surgical treatments such as corticosteroid injections
- Acupuncture, proven effective in some cases of chronic shoulder pain
- Posture training
- Painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications
In some cases, surgery may be necessary, but conservative options are usually the first choice.
Exercises
Although this article mentions them briefly, detailed guidance on exercises for chronic shoulder pain can be found here https://www.motimove.com/nl/chronic-shoulder-pain-causes-treatments-exercises#free
Some general examples are:
- Pendulum swings
- Wall slides
- Isometric shoulder exercises
- Scapular retraction exercises
These are part of the best treatment for chronic shoulder pain when combined with professional guidance.
About Motimove
Motimove is a specialized rehabilitation and movement program focused on reducing chronic musculoskeletal pain through personalized, scientifically based care. In collaboration with care organizations Viasana and health insurer VGZ, Motimove offers structured care pathways and physical therapy for people with chronic conditions such as shoulder pain.
- Viasana: a trusted orthopedic clinic providing diagnostics and specialized care. More info: https://www.viasana.nl
- VGZ: one of the largest health insurers in the Netherlands. Visit: https://www.vgz.nl
- Motimove: see more about our programs and approach via this link https://www.motimove.com/nl/chronic-shoulder-pain-causes-treatments-exercises#free
FAQ – Chronic shoulder pain
1. What is the best treatment for chronic neck and shoulder pain?
A combination of physical therapy, posture correction, manual therapy, and a home exercise program.
2. Can chronic shoulder pain go away on its own?
It may improve over time, but without targeted treatment and exercises it often persists or worsens.
3. Which exercises help with chronic pain between the shoulder blades?
Scapular retractions, wall angels, and thoracic mobilization exercises can provide relief.
4. Is surgery necessary for chronic shoulder pain?
Surgery is only considered if conservative treatments provide no results over several months.
5. Can stress cause chronic shoulder pain?
Yes, long-term stress can cause muscle tension, which contributes to chronic shoulder and neck pain.
Summary
Chronic shoulder pain is a complex condition with a wide range of causes, from arthritis to postural problems. Early recognition of symptoms and following a personalized treatment plan that includes physical therapy and targeted exercises is essential. The best treatments for chronic shoulder pain are often non-surgical and focus on long-term improvement in movement and pain reduction.