Most of us do not realize how much we use our shoulders until we have pain in the shoulder or can’t do certain movements.
If you are suffering from shoulder joint pain, the first thing to do is determine exactly what the problem is.
Did you suffer an injury? Did the pain come on gradually?
The best thing to do to figure out exactly what you are dealing with is to visit your doctor for a diagnosis.
Once you know what you are dealing with, you can then relieve joint pain in the shoulder more easily.
Causes of shoulder joint pain
There are a few causes of shoulder joint pain which is why it is important to know which it is as treatments vary.
- Bursitis
- Osteoarthritis and/or Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Injury
- Tendonitis
- Rotor cuff tear
- Calcium deposits
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Labral tear
- Frozen shoulder
- Impingement
As you can see, it is best to visit your doctor and get a proper diagnosis so you can formulate a treatment plan that is right for your condition.
Holistic treatments that can relieve shoulder joint pain quickly
There are holistic treatments that you can use to relieve shoulder joint pain quickly until you can get to your doctor.
These include the following:
- Hot and cold therapy
- Essential oils used for massage or for aromatherapy
- Rest the shoulder
- Over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen
Let’s look at each of these therapies a little closer.
Hot and cold therapy
Hot and cold therapy can reduce swelling and pain. If you injure your shoulder joint, use ice first to reduce swelling and inflammation. Ice should be put on for 10 minutes then removed for two hours. Once the inflammation is gone, use heat to relax your muscles and reduce the pain.
Essential oils
There are several essential oils that can be used to reduce shoulder pain. These can be used at any time and for almost any diagnosis.
Essential oils can be used for massage therapy or aromatherapy.
MegRelief is an essential oil using nutmeg and peppermint to reduce pain and inflammation; it should be massaged into the area.
Some of the best essential oils for shoulder pain relief and inflammation are as follows:
- Nutmeg
- Peppermint
- Eucalyptus
- Chamomile
- Clary Sage
- Sweet Marjoram
One of the best things about essential oils is that you can use a hot pack right after applying the oil. However, NEVER EVER use hot or cold therapy with over-the-counter muscle rubs or sprays as it could cause serious and severe burns!
Also, always test a small area with any essential oil before applying a full dose to yourself to make sure that you are not allergic.
Rest
Rest should be used for injury or repetitive motion issues until you go to the doctor, and they provide a proper diagnosis.
Afterwards, the doctor will decide if you should continue resting and for how long.
Rest, especially from repetitive motions, means taking a break from the activity and doing something else that does not require the same movements.
Chances are, if you get should pain relief from rest, it is an issue of repetitive motions and the doctor, or a physical therapist will help you come up with a treatment plan for that.
Over-the-counter pain meds
Over the counter pain meds can be a good option before and after you see the doctor.
Over-the-counter meds like Ibuprofen/Motrin help relieve pain and relax the muscles which help reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter muscle relaxants can also help ease tight muscles and reduce pain. These can be used after you see the doctor unless the doctor states otherwise or puts you on prescription drugs that provide relief of pain and inflammation, and/or relaxes your muscles.
Stretching and exercise
Shoulder pain exercises and stretches can help promote your range of motion and reduce pain and swelling. You should consult with a physical therapist to decide which exercises are right for you. So, to relieve joint pain in your shoulder quickly, use hot and cold therapy, essential oils, and over-the-counter medicines until you see your doctor. These can also be incorporated into the treatment the doctor recommends.
