Why does my shoulder hurt when doing pull-ups?

Shoulder pain during pull-ups may be related to factors such as trauma, muscle strain, shoulder periarthritis, fasciitis, and cervical radiculopathy. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment. Specific causes are analyzed below:

1. Trauma

Pain during pull-ups may occur if the shoulder has suffered a forceful impact, causing soft tissue contusion or tearing. This leads to local congestion, swelling, infiltration of inflammatory mediators, and impaired circulation. Performing pull-ups at this time can stretch the injured tissues, thereby worsening pain. Symptoms can be improved with adequate bed rest or managed through massage therapy.

2. Muscle Strain

If an individual normally lacks physical activity and suddenly engages in intense or excessive use of the shoulder muscles, muscle strain and lactic acid buildup may result, leading to the aforementioned symptoms. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Tongluo Qutong ointment or Musk Pain-Relieving Plaster for relief.

3. Shoulder Periarthritis (Frozen Shoulder)

In individuals who already have shoulder periarthritis, performing pull-ups may trigger inflammation in the shoulder joint, stimulating surrounding nerves and causing pain. Patients may, under medical supervision, take medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules or celecoxib capsules for treatment.

4. Fasciitis

Fasciitis can occur in various parts of the body, causing discomfort in the muscular fascia. When it affects the arms, the above symptoms may appear. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as eperisone hydrochloride tablets or chlorzoxazone tablets for management.

5. Cervical Radiculopathy

This condition is often caused by prolonged maintenance of a single posture, leading to changes in the physiological curvature of the cervical spine. Such changes may irritate or compress nerve roots, resulting in sensory abnormalities in areas innervated by the affected nerves. Performing pull-ups may exacerbate nerve root compression and thus lead to the described symptoms. Under medical advice, patients may use medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or flunarizine hydrochloride capsules for treatment.

It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, avoid overexertion, and refrain from strenuous exercise to prevent bodily discomfort. It is advisable to engage in moderate activities such as walking or jogging according to individual physical conditions, which can help enhance immunity and support recovery.