What causes pain in the left shoulder joint and inability to rotate the hand backward, and what should be done about it?
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Left shoulder joint pain with inability to rotate the hand backward may be related to muscle strain, rotator cuff injury, or periarthritis of the shoulder. Patients can be treated through daily care, topical medications, oral drugs, and other methods. If the patient has recently used the left hand to lift heavy objects, excessive force may cause muscle injury around the shoulder joint, leading to symptoms such as pain around the shoulder and restricted movement.
Pain in the left shoulder joint with inability to rotate the hand backward may be related to muscle strain, rotator cuff injury, or shoulder periarthritis. Patients can manage the condition through daily care, topical medications, oral drugs, and other methods. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Muscle Strain
If the patient has recently used the left arm to lift heavy objects, excessive force may cause muscle injury around the shoulder joint, leading to symptoms such as pain and limited movement. Applying a warm towel for local heat therapy can promote blood circulation and help relieve pain.
2. Rotator Cuff Injury
Rotator cuff injuries are usually caused by repetitive movements or external impacts, resulting in symptoms such as shoulder pain and impaired shoulder joint function. Patients may use medications such as Huoxue Zhitong膏 (a traditional plaster for promoting blood circulation and relieving pain) or Tongluo Qutong膏 under medical guidance.
3. Shoulder Periarthritis (Frozen Shoulder)
If the left shoulder joint is exposed to cold, it may trigger an aseptic inflammatory response, causing symptoms including shoulder stiffness, inability to raise the arm, pain, and restricted movement. Patients may take medications such as celecoxib capsules or ibuprofen sustained-release tablets as prescribed by a doctor.
In addition to the common causes mentioned above, similar symptoms may also be associated with cervical spondylosis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. If patients experience other discomforts, they should visit a hospital for evaluation and receive targeted treatment accordingly.
