Treatment Options for Arm & Shoulder

Choosing the right treatment for shoulder pain largely depends on its cause and severity. Here are some recommendations from Hinge Health physical therapists and doctors for alleviating mild to moderate shoulder discomfort:

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medication: Pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be effective. Ensure these are safe for you based on your medical history.

  • Ice and heat application: Apply ice or heat to your shoulder for 15-20 minutes up to four times daily. Use ice for recent injuries or swelling, and heat to boost blood flow and ease stiffness.

  • Pillow support: To reduce pain while sleeping, lie on your non-affected side and use pillows to support your neck, the arm experiencing pain, and behind your back to prevent rolling onto the painful side.

  • Activity modifications: Engage in gentle movements and modify your activities to avoid exacerbating the pain. Use shorter arm movements for chores, carry lighter loads, and take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.

  • Smart device posture: Minimize time spent looking down at phones or tablets. Use stands for devices, position monitors at eye level, and use headphones instead of holding the phone between your head and shoulder.

  • Steroid injections: If OTC medications are inadequate, your doctor might recommend cortisone injections to reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Complementary therapies: Consider discussing alternative treatments like massage, acupuncture, or chiropractic care with your healthcare provider for additional pain relief.

For a more proven, long-term solution, check your eligibility to our free program, paid for by most employers.

  • Doorway Stretch
  • Standing Rotation
  • Seated Cat Cow
  • Seated Snow Angels
  • Seated Levator Stretch

Did you know?

Hinge Health members can work 1:1 with a physical therapist to get personalized exercise therapy program at home or on the go.Best of all, Hinge Health is available at $0 cost to you as it is covered by employers or health insurance plans.

Treatment Options for Arm & Shoulder

Choosing the right treatment for shoulder pain largely depends on its cause and severity. Here are some recommendations from Hinge Health physical therapists and doctors for alleviating mild to moderate shoulder discomfort:

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medication: Pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be effective. Ensure these are safe for you based on your medical history.

  • Ice and heat application: Apply ice or heat to your shoulder for 15-20 minutes up to four times daily. Use ice for recent injuries or swelling, and heat to boost blood flow and ease stiffness.

  • Pillow support: To reduce pain while sleeping, lie on your non-affected side and use pillows to support your neck, the arm experiencing pain, and behind your back to prevent rolling onto the painful side.

  • Activity modifications: Engage in gentle movements and modify your activities to avoid exacerbating the pain. Use shorter arm movements for chores, carry lighter loads, and take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.

  • Smart device posture: Minimize time spent looking down at phones or tablets. Use stands for devices, position monitors at eye level, and use headphones instead of holding the phone between your head and shoulder.

  • Steroid injections: If OTC medications are inadequate, your doctor might recommend cortisone injections to reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Complementary therapies: Consider discussing alternative treatments like massage, acupuncture, or chiropractic care with your healthcare provider for additional pain relief.

For a more proven, long-term solution, check your eligibility to our free program, paid for by most employers.

Did you know?

Hinge Health members can work 1:1 with a physical therapist to get personalized exercise therapy program at home or on the go.Best of all, Hinge Health is available at $0 cost to you as it is covered by employers or health insurance plans.
  • Doorway Stretch
  • Standing Rotation
  • Seated Cat Cow
  • Seated Snow Angels
  • Seated Levator Stretch

Getting started is easy

Woman Stretching With Sensors
Tell us about yourselfComplete a 10-minute questionnaire to open your account and tell us about your experience with pain. Once your account is approved, you can log into the app.
Help us build your care planDownload the Hinge Health app and log in to your account. Then, do a few exercises so we can learn about your pain. This allows us to design the right care plan to help you do more every day, with less pain.
Start your programAnd start feeling better! As your pain improves, so does your care plan—with new exercises and tools to help you move with confidence.
Disclaimer
The information contained in these videos is intended to be used for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or treatment for any specific condition. Hinge Health is not your healthcare provider and is not responsible for any injury sustained or exacerbated by your use of or participation in these exercises. Please consult with your healthcare provider or work with Hinge Health directly with any questions you may have about your medical condition or treatment.