Shoulder pain is a common complaint among adults, but when it worsens or only occurs at night, it can be more than just a nuisance. While many dismiss it as a result of aging or poor sleeping posture, nighttime shoulder pain may be a sign of underlying conditions that require medical attention.
Understanding Nighttime Shoulder Pain
Pain that disrupts your sleep is often a red flag. Unlike occasional daytime discomfort caused by strain or overuse, nighttime shoulder pain is persistent, often worsening when lying on the affected side or even while at rest. The discomfort can interfere with sleep quality, mood, and overall health.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain at Night
1. Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tears or inflammation in this area are among the most frequent causes of nighttime shoulder pain. The pain typically intensifies when lying down or using the shoulder.
2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
This condition leads to stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often becoming worse at night. Over time, it can severely restrict movement and function if left untreated.
3. Shoulder Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction) become inflamed. It often causes sharp pain that gets worse with pressure, such as lying on the shoulder during sleep.
4. Tendonitis
Tendonitis is the inflammation of shoulder tendons, usually due to repetitive use or injury. Like bursitis, pain from tendonitis tends to flare up at night.
5. Referred Pain
Sometimes, shoulder pain doesn’t originate from the shoulder itself. Conditions like heart disease, gallbladder issues, or cervical spine problems can refer pain to the shoulder, particularly at night when the body is at rest.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Ignoring shoulder pain, especially when it interrupts your sleep, can lead to:
- Chronic pain: Untreated issues may worsen over time, leading to more persistent pain and potential joint damage.
- Loss of function: Prolonged pain can result in reduced mobility, muscle atrophy, or frozen shoulder.
- Poor sleep quality: Consistently interrupted sleep can contribute to fatigue, irritability, and impaired healing.
- Undiagnosed serious conditions: In rare cases, shoulder pain can be a symptom of something more serious, such as a heart condition or infection.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a healthcare provider if:
- The pain has lasted more than a few days
- It worsens at night or interferes with sleep
- You experience weakness, numbness, or a limited range of motion
- The shoulder appears swollen, red, or warm to the touch
- The pain began after an injury or fall
Diagnosis and Treatment
A medical professional may perform a physical exam, imaging tests (like an MRI or X-ray), or other assessments to determine the root cause. Treatment options might include:
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- Surgical intervention (for severe tears or structural damage)
Additionally, improving sleep posture, using orthopedic pillows, and avoiding sleeping on the affected side can help relieve symptoms.