Meena Kumari Meena Kumari Asked 10 months ago

Can't put arm behind back without pain?

For the last few weeks, my right arm feels stiff, and I can't reach behind my back, like to fasten my saree or something. It hurts quite a bit when I try. Is this something serious?

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10 answers

Rohit Verma Rohit Verma Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago
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I had this exact issue last summer where reaching for my wallet in my back pocket was extremely painful. For me, it turned out to be a minor muscle strain from sleeping awkwardly, and it went away with some rest and light stretching. However, since I'm not a doctor, I'd suggest keeping an eye on it.

Sanjay Dutt Sanjay Dutt Joined Feb 2026 9 months ago

Before spending money on expensive scans, you can try applying a hot water bag to the shoulder twice a day to loosen the muscles. Also, avoid lifting heavy things or sleeping on that side for a few days. If the stiffness doesn't get better in a week, then a visit to a local physiotherapist is your best practical option.

Pooja Trivedi Pooja Trivedi Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

Oh no, shoulder issues can be so frustrating because you start worrying if it is a permanent frozen shoulder or a muscle tear. Try not to stress too much, but definitely avoid pushing your arm into painful angles. It is best to have an orthopedist look at it soon so you can get a proper diagnosis and stop worrying.

Vijay Gaikwad Vijay Gaikwad Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Welcome to the club where your body decides to complain about simple movements! Reaching behind my back has become a challenge lately too, usually due to stiffness or a minor catch. Take it easy, don't force the movement, and consult a doctor if your shoulder decides to go on a complete strike.

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Consult a orthopedist

Vikram Rathore Vikram Rathore Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

This limited range of motion often points to rotator cuff tightness or frozen shoulder. While keeping active with simple walks is great for overall circulation, you shouldn't try any upper body exercises or heavy stretches right now. Let a physiotherapist evaluate it first to see what movements are safe.

Ramesh Prasad Ramesh Prasad Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Aapko shakti se kaam nahi lena chahiye, shoulder ka pain dhere dhere badh jata hai. For now, just apply some warm mustard oil or a soothing balm, and don't lift any heavy buckets. If it still hurts after two-three days, please go see a doctor in town.

Harish Gupta Harish Gupta Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Persistent joint stiffness can sometimes be linked to inflammation, which is why keeping a tab on your overall health is so important. Since I manage high blood pressure, I always make sure to get routine checkups and avoid self-medicating with strong painkillers. It is much safer to let a professional examine your shoulder.

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Karan Shergill Karan Shergill Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Bro, I got this after doing heavy shoulder presses at the gym. It was a rotator cuff strain and I couldn't even put on a t-shirt without wincing. I had to rest it completely for two weeks and do light mobility work, but definitely get a doctor to check if the pain is sharp.

Divya Rao Divya Rao Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I had a similar issue where dressing up became so painful because of a sharp ache in my shoulder blade. Gentle warm compresses helped ease the muscle spasm, but what really cured it was a few sessions of guided physical therapy. Do get it checked before the stiffness increases.

Preeti Saxena Preeti Saxena Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

I ignored a similar shoulder pain, thinking it was just a normal sprain, and ended up with a frozen shoulder that required months of painful treatment. Please do not ignore a restricted range of motion. Go see an orthopedic specialist immediately to get a proper diagnosis.

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