Shoulder pain when lifting arms: Common causes and what really helps

23. March 2026

Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons for presenting to our practice. The pain is particularly typical when the arm is raised to the side or upwards. Many sufferers notice the discomfort when getting dressed, washing their hair or reaching for objects on a shelf.

But what is behind this pain? And when should you see an orthopaedist?

Why does my shoulder hurt when I lift my arm?

The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body. At the same time, it is also susceptible to irritation, wear and tear and inflammation.

If pain occurs when lifting the arm, the cause is often in the so-called acromion area. This is where tendons and bursae run through a relatively narrow space. If friction or inflammation occurs here, pain occurs.

Common causes of shoulder pain when lifting arms

1. impingement syndrome (bottleneck syndrome)

Impingement syndrome is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain when lifting the arm.

Tendons or the bursa under the acromion are constricted.

Typical symptoms:

  • Pain when lifting the arm to the side
  • Complaints between 60 and 120 degrees of arm elevation
  • Pain during overhead work
  • Night pain on the affected side

2. calcific shoulder (tendinosis calcarea)

With a calcific shoulder, calcium deposits build up in the tendons of the shoulder. These can trigger inflammation and cause severe pain.

Typical symptoms:

  • Sudden onset of shoulder pain
  • Severe pain when lifting the arm
  • Pain at night
  • Restriction of movement

3. inflammation of the bursa (bursitis)

The bursa serves as a “sliding bearing” between tendons and bones. It can become inflamed if overloaded or irritated.

Typical symptoms:

  • Pressure pain in the shoulder
  • Pain during movement
  • Feeling of warmth or slight swelling

4. tendon irritations or tears

The tendons of the rotator cuff stabilize the shoulder. They can become irritated or damaged due to wear and tear or overloading.

Indications of tendon problems:

  • Loss of strength in the arm
  • Pain with certain movements
  • Difficulty lifting the arm

When should you see an orthopaedist with shoulder pain?

An orthopaedic examination is advisable if:

  • the pain lasts longer than a week
  • the arm can no longer be lifted properly
  • the symptoms occur at night
  • was preceded by an accident or a sudden overload
  • the pain keeps recurring

Early diagnosis can prevent an irritation from becoming a chronic problem.

How is the cause determined?

In orthopaedic practice, the diagnosis is usually made in several steps:

1. clinical examination

  • Mobility test
  • Pain localization
  • Force test

2. ultrasound

  • Visualization of tendons and bursae
  • Detection of inflammation or limescale deposits

3. MRI or X-ray (if required)

  • More precise assessment of bones, tendons, cartilage and joint structures

What helps with shoulder pain?

Treatment always depends on the cause of the symptoms.

Conservative treatment (usually sufficient)

  • Protection and relief
  • Cooling for acute pain
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Targeted physiotherapy
  • Shock wave therapy
  • Injection therapy if required

Surgical treatment

Surgery is only rarely necessary and is usually only considered if:

  • there is a major tendon rupture
  • the complaints persist over a longer period of time
  • conservative measures do not help

What you can do yourself

The following measures can help with mild shoulder pain:

  • Temporarily avoid overhead work
  • Move your shoulder regularly but carefully
  • Cooling for acute pain
  • Do not lift heavy loads

Important: Complete immobilization should be avoided, otherwise the shoulder can quickly stiffen up.

Conclusion: Clarify shoulder pain when lifting arms at an early stage

Pain when lifting the arm is common and usually has easily treatable causes such as impingement, a calcified shoulder or bursitis.

If the symptoms persist or become more severe, an orthopaedic examination should be carried out. Early treatment can often prevent the pain from becoming chronic. We as the practice team of Dr. Baron & Kollegen are happy to be there for you!