Whether you’re a weekend warrior on the pickleball court, a guy who refuses to let anyone else move the furniture, or someone whose job keeps their arms in motion all day—shoulder pain can sneak up on you fast.
For many men, shoulder injuries are a frustrating interruption to daily life, affecting everything from work performance to workouts. And while we might like to believe we’re invincible, the shoulder is actually one of the most vulnerable joints in the body, especially after age 30.
The Usual Suspects: Common Causes of Shoulder Injuries
1. Weekend Sports Heroes
Men who stay active through recreational sports are no strangers to shoulder issues. Throwing a ball, swinging a golf club, or returning a high-speed serve in tennis all place repetitive stress on the shoulder joint. Common culprits here include:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Shoulder impingement
- Labral tears
2. The Everyday Workhorse
If your job includes heavy lifting, overhead movement, or using tools regularly—construction, warehouse work, even repetitive desk tasks like long hours at a computer—your shoulders may be at risk for:
- Tendinitis or bursitis
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Degenerative joint changes over time
3. That One Awkward Move
Sometimes it’s not a major incident—it’s lifting the wrong way, reaching behind you awkwardly, or catching something mid-fall. The result? Sudden pain, reduced mobility, and sometimes swelling.
Signs It’s More Than “Just Sore”
We all know the tendency to “tough it out,” but here are some red flags you shouldn’t ignore:
- Pain that lingers more than a week
- Nighttime pain or discomfort lying on your shoulder
- Weakness or reduced range of motion
- Clicking, grinding, or popping sensations
- Swelling or visible changes in the shoulder
What Can You Do About It?
1. Don’t ignore the pain. Early evaluation can make a big difference. What starts as minor inflammation can escalate into a full tear if untreated.
2. Try R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) at the first sign of discomfort—and consider over-the-counter anti-inflammatories if recommended by your provider.
3. See a specialist. Orthopedic physicians who specialize in the shoulder can help diagnose and treat your injury, often without surgery. Physical therapy, targeted injections, or other conservative treatments are often the first line of care.
4. Don’t rush back into action. Rehab and gradual return to activity are key to long-term success—especially if you don’t want this to become a recurring issue.
The Bottom Line:
Your shoulders do a lot for you—at work, in play, and in everyday life. If they’re giving you trouble, don’t shrug it off. Taking action now can keep you stronger, longer.
