The shoulder is one of the most heavily used joints in the body. It allows us to carry, lift, grab, get dressed, comb our hair... But also, unfortunately, to suffer! With age, shoulder pain becomes more and more frequent. It can be debilitating in everyday life, limiting simple movements and affecting independence.
The good news is that there are natural, effective and accessible solutions to relieve pain and promote mobility.
Why do we get shoulder pain? Common causes
The shoulder is a complex joint made up of several bones, tendons, muscles and ligaments. It needs to be both stable and highly mobile, which makes it vulnerable to various disorders, especially with age.
Here are the most common causes:
1. Shoulder tendinitis (or tendinopathy)
Inflammation of one or more tendons (often the supraspinatus) causes pain, especially when raising the arm or carrying a load.
2. Bursitis
This is inflammation of a bursa, a small sac that reduces friction between structures. It causes diffuse pain and sometimes swelling.
3. Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Common after the age of 50, especially in women, this condition manifests itself as progressive stiffness of the shoulder, associated with pain, even at rest.
4. Osteoarthritis of the shoulder
Less common than osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, osteoarthritis can affect the acromioclavicular or glenohumeral joint, causing chronic pain and loss of mobility.
5. Trauma or calcification
A fall or a build-up of calcium deposits in the tendons can also cause sudden or persistent pain.
When to consult a healthcare professional
If the shoulder pain is:
- persistent for several weeks,
- present even at rest or at night,
- accompanied by significant stiffness or muscle weakness
It is essential to consult a doctor or physiotherapist. Tests such as an ultrasound, X-ray or MRI may be prescribed to identify the cause.
Natural treatments and tips for relieving shoulder pain
In addition to conventional medical treatments (painkillers, physiotherapy, injections, etc.), there are many natural approaches that can help relieve and prevent shoulder pain.
1. Rest wisely... but don't remain completely immobile
Avoid straining the joint, but don't leave it completely inactive. Prolonged immobilisation can increase stiffness and slow down healing.
Tip: gently move your shoulder every day within a pain-free range of motion to maintain mobility.
2. Heat or cold depending on the situation
- In the case of acute inflammatory pain (heat, swelling), apply cold (ice pack, bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth) for 15 to 20 minutes.
- For chronic or muscular pain, opt for heat (hot water bottle, heating pad) to relax the tissues and relieve pain.
3. Gentle rehabilitation exercises
Under the supervision of a physiotherapist or at home (with caution), certain exercises can help strengthen the stabilising muscles of the shoulder and gradually restore mobility.
Here are a few simple examples:
- Pendulum swing: lean forward slightly, let your arm swing freely and make small circles.
- Light lifts with elastic band: to gradually build muscle without overloading.
4. Plants and essential oils
Several natural remedies can be used in massage or as a supplement:
- Arnica: to relieve pain and bruising.
- Harpagophytum (devil's claw): a natural anti-inflammatory often used for joint pain.
- Essential oils of wintergreen, lavender or lemon eucalyptus: dilute in vegetable oil and apply locally.
Always test beforehand and seek professional advice, especially if you are taking medication.
5. Magnet therapy: a gentle, natural solution
Magnet therapy can be an excellent ally in relieving shoulder pain, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis, chronic tendinitis or capsulitis.
How does it work?
Therapeutic magnets generate a magnetic field that:
- stimulates local blood circulation,
- reduces tension and inflammation,
- promotes muscle relaxation,
- and soothes deep pain.
Advantages:
- No side effects,
- Compatible with other treatments,
- Magnetic shoulder brace easy to wear every day
6. Eat better to suffer less
Diet also plays an important role in joint inflammation. An anti-inflammatory diet can help relieve pain in the long term.
Prioritise:
- Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants,
- Oily fish (omega-3),
- High-quality vegetable oils (rapeseed, olive),
- Walnuts, almonds, chia seeds.
Limit:
- Refined sugar,
- Excess red meat,
- Processed products rich in additives.
In conclusion: patience, movement and gentleness
Shoulder pain can be painful but is rarely irreversible. With appropriate treatment, regular care and a holistic approach that includes natural therapies such as magnet therapy, it is possible to regain mobility, comfort and independence.
The important thing is not to let the pain linger, to adopt the right habits and to listen to your body. And remember: every little gesture counts, especially when it is done with kindness... towards yourself.