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The following are the causes of shoulder pain: inflammation (swelling) of the tendons (tendinitis); swelling of the bursa (small sacs with fluids on the joints) known as bursitis; arthritis; shoulder injury; instability such as dislocation of the shoulder; injury to the nerve of the upper back and neck; and injury to the shoulder nerve.

You may visit your doctor if you have shoulder pain. After an initial examination of the shoulder, your doctor will recommend you to see an orthopaedic specialist who specialises in shoulder problems or orthopaedic surgeon. If the problem is of neurologic origin, your doctor might suggest you to meet a neurologist.

The different treatment options available for shoulder pain are as follows: alteration of physical activities; application of heat and cold packs; medications such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce swelling and pain. Injection of steroid in case of severe pain and conditions like frozen shoulder; physical therapy; and surgery.

Yes, physical therapy can be an option in treating shoulder pain. The physiotherapist and your doctor will decide the number of sessions that you might require. Physical therapy can help in improving the strength and flexibility of the shoulder muscles.

If you have mild shoulder pain, you may take over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol or some anti-inflammatory medicines. However, it is best to consult a doctor for your shoulder pain. The doctor will make a correct diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.