Struggling to find a comfortable sleeping position because of nagging shoulder pain? Nighttime rotator cuff pain is a common issue that can disrupt sleep and impact your daily routine. Here’s what this pain means—and what you can do to obtain lasting relief and better shoulder function.
Why Does Rotator Cuff Pain Worsen at Night?
When you lie down, pressure builds around the shoulder joint, especially if you sleep on the affected side. This can aggravate inflammation in the rotator cuff—a group of tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Furthermore, at night your muscles relax and circulation slows, often making discomfort more noticeable. Tendon injuries, bursitis, or shoulder impingement may also contribute to pain that surfaces or intensifies after sundown.
Signs Your Rotator Cuff Might Be Injured
Not all shoulder pain points to a rotator cuff tear, but there are a few telltale signs:
- Difficulty lifting your arm above your head
- Weakness or limited range of motion
- Discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder
- Pain that radiates down the arm or worsens with certain movements
If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it may be time to consult a specialist.
Early Interventions for Nighttime Shoulder Discomfort
Mild to moderate rotator cuff irritation can often be managed without surgery. Conservative treatment options include:
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and restore mobility
- Corticosteroid injections to calm inflammation
- Activity modification to avoid aggravating movements
- Sleeping with a pillow under your arm or switching to your non-affected side can also help reduce nighttime discomfort.
When Surgery May Be Recommended
If non-surgical options don’t provide relief, or if imaging shows a significant tear, you may be a candidate for minimally invasive rotator cuff repair. Using arthroscopic techniques, through small incisions, the injured tissue can be accessed and treated, leading to less tissue surgical trauma and a faster recovery.
Patients who undergo arthroscopic surgery often experience improvements in both sleep and daily function over time. Early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening or becoming chronic
If nighttime shoulder pain is interfering with your sleep or quality of life, a shoulder specialist can pinpoint the cause and offer targeted solutions to relieve discomfort and restore your quality of life.
AUTHOR: Geoffrey Van Thiel, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine treatments of the hip, knee, and shoulder, with a focus on compassionate, cutting-edge care. Dr. Van Thiel’s commitment to athletics and an active lifestyle is evident in both his personal belief that activity leads to better health and his involvement with the Chicago Blackhawks Medical Network, AHL Rockford IceHogs, and US National Soccer Teams.
