The shoulder joint has a remarkable range of motion, allowing us to perform a wide variety of movements, from lifting and reaching to throwing and rotating. The ball-and-socket structure of the shoulder joint affords this flexibility. However, this extensive range of motion also makes the shoulder less stable. It is therefore more susceptible to injuries, stiffness, and long-term wear and tear, which are common causes of shoulder pain in female patients.
Compared to men, women are more vulnerable to shoulder pain. Certain conditions, such as frozen shoulders, are influenced by hormonal changes during menopause. Anatomically, women also have a narrower subacromial space – a tunnel that tendons pass through. This structural difference increases the chance of tendon wear and tear. Factors from daily life, including posture, repetitive tasks, and job demands, can contribute to shoulder pain in women on either the right or left side.
If you are struggling with persistent shoulder pain, understanding the underlying cause is the first step towards relief.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain in Females
1. Rotator cuff problems
The rotator cuff is composed of four muscles that play a crucial role in stabilising the shoulder joint and giving it a dynamic range of motion. These tendons can get inflamed or torn, resulting in shoulder pain.
2. Frozen shoulder
Frozen shoulder occurs when the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and stiff, restricting motion. This condition is one of the leading causes of shoulder pain in female patients aged 40 to 60 and is more common in those with diabetes, thyroid disorders, or other shoulder conditions. Women may experience significant discomfort, particularly when reaching overhead or behind the back.
3. Arthritis
Arthritis is caused by progressive wear and tear of the shoulder joint. It can range from mild thinning of the joint cartilage to complete cartilage loss, resulting in chronic shoulder stiffness and pain that disrupts daily activities.
4. Pain from the neck
Neck conditions, such as a pinched nerve, can radiate pain into the shoulder, mimicking right or left shoulder pain in women. This overlap often makes diagnosis more complex without a professional assessment.
5. Posture and overuse
Prolonged sitting at a desk, carrying children, or repeatedly using one shoulder for heavy bags can strain the joint. Over time, these habits can lead to posture-related shoulder pain that is especially common in women balancing work and home responsibilities.
Managing Shoulder Pain Safely
It is not advisable to “push through” a painful shoulder. Continuing to use the joint despite pain can worsen the condition, resulting in more severe injuries and longer recovery times. Early medical attention is essential, particularly for women experiencing persistent right shoulder pain or left shoulder pain.
In the meantime, you can:
- Rest the shoulder joint and avoid painful activities such as overhead lifting or heavy carrying.
- Use the shoulder for light, daily tasks without overstraining it.
- Apply an ice pack regularly (15 to 20 minutes, every 2 to 3 hours) within the first 48 to 72 hours to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
At our pain management clinic, we specialise in the diagnosis of shoulder pain in Singapore. We also offer a variety of minimally invasive treatments for shoulder pain, such as hydrodilatation, subacromial bursal injections, shockwave therapy, and radiofrequency ablation.
