Tag: Shoulder pain

Did you know that over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common first-line treatment for many types of shoulder pain? Determining what is the best anti-inflammatory for shoulder pain involves evaluating the cause, severity, and your individual health needs.

Shoulder pain is the third most common musculoskeletal complaint, with a point prevalence ranging from 7% to 26% [1.7.1]. Answering 'What is the best painkiller for shoulder pain?' depends on the pain's cause, which can range from arthritis to tendonitis [1.9.1, 1.9.3].

While cortisone shots can offer effective short-term relief for bicep tendonitis by reducing inflammation, they are not a permanent fix and carry potential risks, such as tendon weakening with repeated use. A 2011 systematic review found that corticosteroid injections were beneficial in the short term for tendinopathies but potentially worse than other treatments in the intermediate and long term.

Approximately 70% of adults aged 50–80 report experiencing joint pain, with many seeking topical relief. This raises a common question: **Why can't you use Voltaren gel on your shoulder** according to official FDA guidelines, and what does this mean for managing shoulder pain?