Monthly Archives: November 2025

Pain above the shoulder blade? your first thought probably jumps to the rotator cuff. While it’s one of the most well-known causes, there are several other conditions that can cause similar discomfort — from neck-related nerve compression to joint inflammation. Identifying the real source of pain is key to getting lasting relief. 

If you’re struggling with chronic shoulder issues, it’s crucial to understand that the pain might be originating from structures around the shoulder, or even from entirely different parts of your body.

Here are four common causes of shoulder pain that have nothing to do with your rotator cuff:

1. Pain Originating from the Neck (Cervical Spine Issues)

Sometimes, shoulder pain isn’t coming from the shoulder at all — it’s referred from the neck. Conditions like cervical spondylosis, nerve compression, or a disc bulge can cause radiating pain down the shoulder or arm.

You may notice:

👉🏻Pain traveling from the neck to the arm

👉🏻Tingling or numbness in fingers

👉🏻Neck stiffness or limited range of motion

An orthopedic or spine evaluation can help pinpoint whether your pain is nerve-related rather than joint-related.

2. Shoulder Impingement or Bursitis

If raising your arm or reaching overhead triggers sharp pain, you might be dealing with shoulder impingement or bursitis. These occur when tendons or bursae become inflamed due to repetitive motion or poor posture.

Early relief strategies:

👉🏻 Rest and avoid overhead movements

👉🏻 Apply cold compresses

👉🏻 Gentle physiotherapy and posture correction

3. AC Joint Arthritis or Sprain

Pain on the top of your shoulder could stem from the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, which connects the collarbone to the shoulder. Overuse, heavy lifting, or minor trauma can cause inflammation or arthritis here.

This pain often worsens when carrying bags or sleeping on the affected side.

4. Referred Pain from Internal Organs

In rare cases, pain around the shoulder — particularly on the left side — may be referred from the heart, lungs, or diaphragm. If shoulder pain comes with chest tightness, breathlessness, or dizziness, seek immediate medical help.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

Consult an orthopedic doctor if:

👉🏻 Pain persists for more than two weeks

👉🏻 You have trouble lifting your arm or sleeping

👉🏻 There’s numbness, tingling, or weakness

At Surannavar Hospital, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and physiotherapy-guided care to accurately treat the root cause of your pain — not just the symptoms.

At-Home Relief Tips

✔️ Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes a few times daily

✔️ Maintain good posture at your desk

✔️ Practice gentle shoulder and neck stretches

✔️ Avoid sudden, heavy lifting

If your shoulder pain persists despite rest, don’t self-diagnose based on the rotator cuff. A thorough examination by a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist is essential to pinpoint the true cause and start an effective, targeted treatment plan. An early diagnostic ensures faster, safer recovery.

Vitamin D is a quiet hero of human health, yet millions globally suffer from a Vitamin D deficiency. It’s not just a vitamin; it’s a pro-hormone crucial for dozens of bodily functions. Vitamin D — often called the “sunshine vitamin” — plays a vital role in maintaining strong bones, helping your body absorb calcium, and preventing long-term bone diseases. Yet today, vitamin D deficiency has quietly become one of the most common health problems, especially among urban adults who spend most of their time indoors.

Why Vitamin D Matters for Your Bones

Vitamin D is not just another supplement; it’s a bone protector. It helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus — minerals that give your bones strength and structure. Without enough vitamin D, bones can become weak, soft, or brittle, and over time, this can lead to conditions like osteomalacia in adults or rickets in children, and increase the risk of osteoporosis, especially in women after menopause.

Research also shows that low vitamin D levels are linked to muscle weakness, joint pain, and increased risk of falls in older adults.

Why the 10 a.m. Sun is Ideal

You might wonder — isn’t all sunlight the same? Not quite. The 10 a.m. sun strikes the right balance — strong enough to stimulate vitamin D synthesis while gentle enough to protect your skin.

Here’s how it works:

Before 9 a.m., UVB rays are weaker, so your body produces less vitamin D.

Between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., UVB rays are optimal for natural vitamin D synthesis.

After noon, sunlight becomes harsher, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

A simple daily exposure of 15–30 minutes, with your arms and legs uncovered, can make a big difference. Avoid applying sunscreen during this short window, as it blocks UVB rays required for vitamin D production.

How Much Vitamin D Do You Really Need?

Relying solely on the sun is unreliable due to skin tone, geographical location, and clothing habits. This is why a combined approach is often necessary.

Most adults need about 600–800 IU of vitamin D daily, but those with deficiency may need 1000–2000 IU. You can also boost your levels naturally through:

• Fatty fish like salmon, tuna
• Egg yolks
• Fortified milk or cereals
• Doctor-recommended vitamin D supplements

Always consult your healthcare provider to test your Vitamin D blood levels and determine the ideal supplementation dosage for strong, healthy bones.

The key to preventing the Vitamin D deficit is consistency. Don’t wait for warmer weather or a dedicated sun holiday; make that short, midday burst of sunlight a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. If you suspect your levels are low or you have underlying bone health concerns, the best approach is to get a simple blood test. Knowing your specific Vitamin D level allows your doctor to recommend the precise supplementation necessary to keep your bones dense, strong, and protected for years to come.

So, step outside, soak in that golden light, and give your bones the sunshine boost they deserve.