Does your shoulder hurt when you put a bag on a high shelf, hang up laundry or reach into an overhead cupboard? The movements that bring on your pain can help a clinician understand your symptoms. Several shoulder conditions can feel similar, so the movement alone cannot tell you the cause.

Notice when it hurts

For a few days, note which arm hurts, whether it began after a fall or a change in activity, and whether it hurts more when you lift an object or when you reach with an empty hand. Mention any stiffness or loss of strength and whether pain is disturbing your sleep.

Make everyday tasks easier

Move frequently used items to a lower shelf and keep loads close to your body. Reduce repeated overhead lifting that aggravates the pain. Keep the shoulder moving gently within a comfortable range as you go about your day. A warm or cold pack wrapped in a towel may help with comfort.

Know when to get checked

See a GP if the pain worsens, has not started improving after about two weeks, or makes it very difficult to move your arm. Seek urgent medical care if the pain starts after an injury, is sudden and severe, or comes with an inability to move the arm, marked swelling, persistent numbness or fever.

Source: NHS guidance on shoulder pain.