The neck and shoulder structures are very closely related in the human body, making it sometimes difficult to pin-point the exact issue. 

It is a very common issue for adults to experience and often runs a self-limiting course.  Detailed below are some exercises you can try at home which are safe and likely to bring about considerable improvement in your symptoms. 

Common conditions we see in general practice and applicable to this guide – “trapped nerve”/cervical nerve impingement; cervical spondylosis; cervical radiculopathy for further information click on this link: https://patient.info/bones-joints-muscles/neck-pain.

Other common conditions are rotator cuff syndrome; rotator cuff tear; AC joint arthritis; frozen shoulder.  For further information click on this link: https://patient.info/bones-joints-muscles/shoulder-pain-leaflet 

 It is also important to mention the use of prescription drugs in musculoskeletal syndromes such as the above.  Powerful prescription drugs such as codeine, morphine, tramadol, benzodiazepines, gabapentinoids, have extensive side effect profiles and run risks of dependence even in relatively short-term use.  It is always our recommendation that safer, over-the-counter preparations such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or topical non-steroidals are considered and tried in the first instance of a musculoskeletal issue.