When Reaching Into a Cupboard Hurts Your Shoulder
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You reach for a favourite mug on the top shelf and feel a sharp twinge in your shoulder. Putting on a jacket becomes awkward, washing your hair takes longer, and reaching behind your back feels unexpectedly uncomfortable. These small frustrations can creep into everyday life, making it tempting to use your other arm and hope the problem disappears.
Shoulder pain can develop for several reasons. The muscles and tendons that help lift and rotate your arm may become irritated or weakened over time, sometimes causing pain when you reach overhead. Other possibilities include arthritis or a stiff shoulder. The movement that triggers the discomfort can offer useful clues, but it cannot identify the cause on its own.
Pay attention to how the problem started. Did it appear after lifting something heavy, reaching awkwardly, or falling? Or has the discomfort gradually developed without a clear reason? Notice whether you can raise your arm normally, whether it feels weaker than usual and whether the pain disturbs your sleep. These details will help your GP or physiotherapist assess the problem.
In the meantime, avoid repeatedly forcing your arm through movements that cause significant pain. You could move frequently used items to lower shelves, use your other arm for heavier objects, and break household tasks into shorter stretches.
A wrapped cold pack or gentle warmth may provide temporary relief, depending on what feels comfortable. However, do not keep your shoulder completely still for long periods unless a healthcare professional advises you to, as prolonged inactivity can contribute to stiffness.
If the pain is worsening, keeps returning, or makes it difficult to lift your arm, arrange an appointment with your GP or a physiotherapist. Seek prompt assessment after a fall or injury if you cannot move the arm, or if the shoulder looks deformed. Pain that repeatedly wakes you at night also deserves attention.
There is one important exception: sudden, severe shoulder pain accompanied by chest tightness, shortness of breath, sweating, or pain spreading down the arm may indicate a heart attack. Call 111 in New Zealand immediately rather than assuming the problem is muscular.
You do not need to accept persistent shoulder pain as an unavoidable part of ageing. Identifying the cause and adjusting how you use your arm can help you return to ordinary activities with greater comfort and confidence.
