NSAIDs for Shoulder Pain
NSAIDs are used to temporarily relieve pain and inflammation in the shoulder, often as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physiotherapy, activity modification, or other medications.
NSAIDs are used to temporarily relieve pain and inflammation in the shoulder, often as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physiotherapy, activity modification, or other medications.
Taking NSAIDs is not painful, but they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as heartburn or stomach upset in some people.
NSAIDs are effective for short-term relief of symptoms but do not address the underlying cause of shoulder pain. They are often used to reduce symptoms while other treatments take effect.
Yes, there are several alternatives to NSAIDs for managing shoulder pain, depending on the underlying cause. Paracetamol may be used as an initial option for mild pain, as it is gentler on the stomach and kidneys. Topical anti-inflammatory gels can provide local relief with fewer systemic effects. Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of shoulder pain management, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and function. In cases of persistent inflammation, corticosteroid injections may be considered to provide temporary relief. Non-pharmacological options such as heat therapy, gentle stretching, or massage may also help reduce discomfort. For chronic or complex cases, a specialist might explore treatments such as platelet-rich plasma injections, although their effectiveness is still being studied. Maintaining good posture, avoiding repetitive strain, and addressing contributing factors like neck stiffness or poor sleep can make a significant difference. Every treatment plan should be tailored to the individual, taking into account their medical history and lifestyle. Your doctor can help you decide the safest and most effective approach for your condition.
When taking NSAIDs, it’s best to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding—two common side effects of anti-inflammatory medication. You should also be cautious with caffeine and highly acidic foods like citrus or tomato-based meals if you have a sensitive stomach, as these can worsen discomfort. NSAIDs should ideally be taken with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset. Individuals prone to heartburn may find it helpful to avoid spicy or greasy foods. There are no strict dietary restrictions, but maintaining a balanced diet that supports gut health and hydration is beneficial. Some people find that anti-inflammatory foods such as oily fish, leafy greens, and berries complement their treatment, although these should never replace prescribed medication. Always discuss with your doctor or dietitian before taking supplements such as omega-3 or turmeric, as these can also interact with blood-thinning or anti-inflammatory drugs. Water intake is particularly important, especially if you are using NSAIDs regularly, to support kidney function. If you notice persistent indigestion or stomach pain while taking NSAIDs, stop the medication and speak with your healthcare provider.
People with certain medical conditions should be cautious when using NSAIDs. Those with stomach ulcers, heart disease, kidney problems, or high blood pressure are at higher risk of complications. NSAIDs can worsen existing gastrointestinal irritation, raise blood pressure, and reduce kidney function, especially when used long-term. Patients with asthma should also check with their doctor, as some may experience worsening symptoms after taking NSAIDs. For individuals with liver disease or those taking blood-thinning medications, alternatives may be safer. If you have diabetes, NSAIDs can interact with medications that affect kidney function, requiring closer monitoring. It’s crucial to discuss your full medical history and current medications before starting NSAIDs, even if you are using over-the-counter brands. Your doctor may recommend a different pain relief strategy, adjust your dosage, or prescribe a protective medication to reduce stomach irritation. In some cases, topical NSAIDs or non-drug therapies are safer options. Regular follow-up ensures your treatment remains both effective and safe for your individual health needs.
It’s important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking NSAIDs alongside any other medications, as certain combinations can increase the risk of side effects or reduce effectiveness. NSAIDs, including ibuprofen and naproxen, can interact with a wide range of commonly used medicines such as blood thinners, certain blood pressure tablets, corticosteroids, and antidepressants. For example, combining NSAIDs with anticoagulants like warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding, while taking them with ACE inhibitors or diuretics can affect kidney function. Similarly, people on low-dose aspirin should use caution, as taking additional NSAIDs may interfere with aspirin’s protective effect on the heart. Even over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements can interact with NSAIDs. Always check the active ingredients of any pain relief product to avoid accidental double dosing. Your doctor will assess your full medication list, including any supplements, to ensure it’s safe for you. In some cases, they may recommend an alternative form of pain management, prescribe a lower NSAID dose, or suggest using topical formulations to reduce systemic effects.
NSAIDs cannot cure the underlying cause of shoulder pain; they work primarily to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. For example, if shoulder pain arises from bursitis, rotator cuff tendinopathy, or arthritis, NSAIDs can make movement easier and decrease stiffness, but they do not reverse structural damage or repair tissue. The goal of NSAID therapy is to manage symptoms while the body heals or while other treatments—such as physiotherapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery—address the source of the problem. In some cases, shoulder pain may be self-limiting, meaning it improves naturally over time with rest and rehabilitation. However, ongoing pain despite NSAID use should be assessed by a specialist to rule out conditions that require more targeted management. Long-term recovery typically involves a combination of strategies including strengthening exercises, posture correction, and activity modification. It’s important not to rely solely on pain relief, as masking symptoms can sometimes delay diagnosis or worsen strain on the joint. NSAIDs are best used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan rather than a cure.
NSAIDs typically start working within a few hours of the first dose, with pain relief and reduction in inflammation becoming noticeable after one or two days of consistent use. You’ll likely know they’re effective if your shoulder feels less stiff, swollen, or tender, and your ability to move the joint improves. However, response times vary between individuals and depend on the underlying cause of the pain. For instance, acute inflammation may respond quickly, whereas chronic arthritis-related discomfort might take several days to ease. It’s important to remember that NSAIDs treat symptoms, not the root cause of shoulder pain. If after a week or two there’s no significant improvement, or if pain worsens, you should review your treatment with your doctor. They may check whether the diagnosis needs revisiting or if additional therapies—such as physiotherapy, corticosteroid injections, or other pain-modulating medications—are appropriate. Always avoid increasing the dose on your own, as this can increase the risk of side effects without improving effectiveness.
The duration of NSAID use depends on the condition being treated and your overall health. For most people with short-term shoulder pain from an injury or inflammation, NSAIDs are only needed for a few days to a couple of weeks. Prolonged use should always be guided by a doctor, as long-term use increases the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney problems, and cardiovascular issues. If your pain persists beyond two weeks, it’s essential to review your treatment plan with your healthcare professional. They may suggest switching to intermittent use or exploring non-medication options such as physiotherapy, heat therapy, or gentle exercise. For chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, some patients may need NSAIDs on and off over longer periods, but this should always be closely monitored. Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time is considered safest practice. Regular follow-up appointments allow your doctor to check blood pressure, kidney function, and gastrointestinal health to prevent complications. Never take NSAIDs continuously without medical advice, as this may mask symptoms of a more serious condition that requires different treatment.
Like all medications, NSAIDs can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. The most common issues include stomach irritation, heartburn, nausea, and in some cases, more serious gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, especially with long-term use or in older adults. Kidney function may also be affected, particularly in people who are dehydrated or taking other medications that stress the kidneys. Some individuals experience fluid retention, raised blood pressure, or mild allergic reactions such as skin rashes. Less commonly, NSAIDs may increase cardiovascular risk if used frequently or in high doses. It’s vital to stop taking the medicine and seek medical attention immediately if you develop black stools, vomiting blood, severe stomach pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in the legs. To minimise risk, always take NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose and with food, and avoid alcohol while using them. Your doctor may recommend blood tests to monitor kidney function if long-term treatment is necessary. Most people tolerate NSAIDs well when used correctly and under medical supervision.