You’re ready for bed, but your shoulder has other plans. Lying on your side hurts. Rolling over doesn’t help much. You rearrange your pillows, hoping to find a comfortable position.
If this sounds familiar, you may be wondering whether you simply slept on your shoulder wrong or whether something else is going on.
Shoulder pain at night can have several causes. When it keeps interrupting your sleep, it’s worth getting checked. You don’t have to wait until the pain becomes severe to ask for help.
Why does my shoulder hurt when I lie down?
Lying directly on a sore shoulder can put pressure on irritated tissues. Some shoulder conditions also cause pain while you’re resting, so switching sides may not completely solve the problem.
You might notice discomfort during the day, too, when reaching into a cabinet, putting on a shirt, or lifting groceries. These details can help your doctor understand what’s happening.
Common causes include:
- Rotator cuff problems: Irritation or a tear in the muscles and tendons that help you lift and turn your arm.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of a small, fluid-filled cushion that helps tissues move smoothly around your shoulder.
- Frozen shoulder: Pain and stiffness that gradually make it harder to move your arm.
- Arthritis: Changes in the joint that can cause aching and stiffness.
These conditions can feel similar. Nighttime pain alone doesn’t mean you have a torn tendon or need surgery.
What can I try to get more comfortable?
For mild discomfort without a recent injury or warning signs, a few adjustments may help:
- Try sleeping on your back or the opposite side.
- Use a pillow to support your sore arm.
- Temporarily cut back on lifting or repeated movements that make the pain worse.
- Keep your shoulder moving gently within a comfortable range. Don’t force a stretch through pain.
If you’re considering an over-the-counter pain reliever, ask your doctor or pharmacist what’s appropriate for you, especially if you take other medications or have ongoing health conditions.
These steps may ease discomfort, but recurring pain still deserves attention.
When should I see an orthopedic specialist?
Consider scheduling an appointment if your shoulder pain:
- Regularly wakes you or makes it difficult to fall asleep.
- Interferes with getting dressed, working, exercising, or other everyday activities.
- Comes with increasing weakness or stiffness.
- Is getting worse or hasn’t started improving after about two weeks.
You can seek care sooner if symptoms concern you. If the pain began after a fall, lifting injury, or sudden pull, tell the office when you call so they can help determine how quickly you should be seen.
What happens at an appointment?
An evaluation starts with a conversation. Your doctor will ask when the pain began, what makes it worse, and how it affects your sleep and daily routine. They’ll also check your shoulder’s movement and strength.
Imaging may be recommended, depending on the exam. Not everyone needs an MRI.
Treatment may include changes to your activities, physical therapy, medication, or an injection when appropriate. Many shoulder problems can be treated without surgery. If surgery is recommended, your doctor will explain the options and expected recovery.
When does shoulder pain need urgent care?
Seek urgent medical attention for severe pain after an injury, sudden swelling, a shoulder that looks out of place, or an inability to move your arm away from your body. A red, warm, swollen, and tender shoulder also needs prompt assessment.
Shoulder or arm discomfort that comes with chest pressure or shortness of breath should be checked by emergency care right away.
Find help for shoulder pain in Metairie and LaPlace
At Metairie Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Dr. R. Douglas Bostick III and Dr. Ryan C. Roubion can help you understand what’s causing your shoulder pain and discuss treatment options that fit your needs.
If shoulder discomfort is costing you sleep, request an appointment online or call either office. Same-day and next-day appointments may be available. Ask about availability when you call.