Left shoulder pain is a common complaint, but knowing when it’s a sign of a serious medical emergency can be life-saving. While most cases are due to musculoskeletal issues such as a rotator cuff injury, frozen shoulder, or tendonitis, left-sided shoulder pain can sometimes signal a cardiac event—especially in adults over 40.
In this blog, we’ll help you understand the possible causes of left shoulder pain, red-flag symptoms, and when you should seek immediate medical attention.
Common Causes of Left Shoulder Pain
Left shoulder pain can originate from a variety of issues. Some of the most frequent causes include:
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Rotator Cuff Injuries
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Bursitis or Tendinitis
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Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
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Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
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Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Nerve Compression (Cervical Radiculopathy)
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Referred Pain from Organs (especially the heart or lungs)
When Left Shoulder Pain Might Be Serious
Certain symptoms accompanying shoulder pain may indicate an emergency, particularly if the pain stems from heart-related issues such as angina or a heart attack. This is known as referred pain, where discomfort from an internal organ is felt in a different location, like the left arm or shoulder.
Emergency Symptoms: When to Seek Immediate Help
Call emergency services (e.g., 108 in India or 911 in the US) if your left shoulder pain is accompanied by:
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Chest pain or tightness
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Shortness of breath
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Pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or left arm
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Sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness
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Sudden onset of severe shoulder pain without trauma
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Loss of consciousness or confusion
These symptoms may indicate a heart attack (myocardial infarction), unstable angina, or other cardiovascular emergencies.
Shoulder Pain vs. Heart Attack: How to Tell the Difference
| Symptom | Musculoskeletal Cause | Possible Heart Attack |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Gradual or after movement | Sudden, can occur at rest |
| Location | Localized to shoulder | Diffuse, may radiate to chest, arm, jaw |
| Aggravated By | Shoulder movement | Physical exertion or stress |
| Relieved By | Rest, ice, pain meds | Often not relieved by rest |
| Associated Symptoms | Stiffness, swelling | Sweating, nausea, chest pain |
Left Shoulder Pain in Women: A Silent Sign
Women may experience atypical symptoms of heart disease. Sometimes, left shoulder or upper back pain is the only sign of a heart attack. Women may not always feel chest pain. This is why it’s critical for women to recognize non-traditional warning signs, including:
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Unusual fatigue
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Indigestion-like discomfort
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Anxiety or a feeling of “impending doom”
Non-Emergency Shoulder Pain: When to See a Doctor
If your shoulder pain:
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Is persistent or worsening over days
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Limits your range of motion
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Occurs after an injury or fall
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Is associated with joint swelling or warmth
Then you should schedule an orthopedic consultation. Conditions like rotator cuff tears, bursitis, and frozen shoulder benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.
Final Thoughts
Left shoulder pain should never be ignored—especially if it starts suddenly or comes with other warning signs like chest discomfort or breathlessness. Like wiase Dr. Umesh Jadhav, a renowned orthopedic specialist in Nigdi, PCMC, suggest a timely evaluation is crucial to rule out serious conditions such as heart issues, nerve compression, or internal injuries. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s safer to seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis can lead to faster relief and prevent potential complications.
Also read: Common Types of Shoulder Surgeries