What are the common causes of numbness in the right shoulder?
Jan 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, common causes of numbness in the right shoulder may include stress and anxiety, improper posture, cold exposure, periarthritis of the shoulder, cervical spondylosis, and other related conditions. Symptomatic management typically involves general treatments, medication, and other approaches. It is recommended to engage in moderate exercise regularly, such as swimming or playing badminton, which can help strengthen shoulder muscles and improve local blood circulation.
Generally, common causes of numbness in the right shoulder may include stress and anxiety, improper posture, cold stimulation, periarthritis of the shoulder, cervical spondylosis, and other factors. Symptomatic treatment through general therapy and medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Stress and Anxiety
When experiencing high levels of mental stress or anxiety, the body's stress response may lead to muscle tension and poor blood circulation, which can cause numbness in the right shoulder. It is recommended to learn and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation to help relieve mental stress.
2. Improper Posture
Maintaining poor posture for extended periods, such as working with the head lowered for long periods or sleeping with a pillow that is too high, can cause tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, compressing nerves and resulting in numbness in the right shoulder. It is recommended to adjust work and rest postures, and regularly perform stretching exercises for the neck and shoulders, such as cervical spine exercises and shoulder rotations, to relax the muscles.
3. Cold Stimulation
Cold stimulation can cause blood vessels in the shoulder area to constrict, slowing blood circulation and leading to local ischemia and hypoxia, thus causing numbness, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as shoulder pain and stiffness. It is recommended to use a hot water bag or warm towel for local heat application to improve blood circulation.
4. Periarthritis of the Shoulder
Periarthritis of the shoulder mainly occurs due to long-term overuse of the shoulder, poor posture, acute shoulder injuries, and other reasons. It can cause adhesion and compression of soft tissues around the shoulder joint, affecting the normal function of nerves, thus leading to numbness, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as shoulder pain, limited movement, and swelling. It is recommended to use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs under a doctor's guidance, such as indomethacin tablets, acetaminophen tablets, loxoprofen sodium tablets, etc., to relieve pain and inflammation.
5. Cervical Spondylosis
Long-term strain and degeneration of the cervical spine may lead to cervical spondylosis. Cervical disc herniation or bone spurs caused by cervical spondylosis may compress cervical nerve roots. The nerve roots control sensation and movement in the shoulder area, and compression can cause numbness and pain in the shoulder. It is recommended to use medications such as aceclofenac tablets, Jingfukang granules, mecobalamin tablets, etc., as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.
It is recommended to engage in moderate daily exercise, such as swimming and playing badminton, which can help strengthen shoulder muscles and improve local blood circulation.
