ayurvedic home remedies for shoulder pain — looking for natural ways to relieve discomfort - #1769
For the past few months, I’ve been dealing with constant pain in my shoulder. It started as a dull ache but has turned into a sharp, throbbing pain whenever I try to lift or rotate my arm. I’ve seen a doctor, and they think it might be tendonitis or a mild rotator cuff issue, but they recommend rest and pain relievers. However, I don’t want to keep relying on medication for relief. I’m more interested in trying natural remedies. I’ve heard that Ayurvedic home remedies can help with joint and muscle pain, and I’m wondering if there are any effective treatments for shoulder pain specifically. I’ve read about applying herbal oils like Mahanarayan oil and doing certain stretches, but I’m not sure what works best. Can anyone recommend Ayurvedic remedies or techniques to help ease shoulder pain and promote healing?
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Doctors’ responses
For shoulder pain, particularly from tendonitis or rotator cuff issues, Ayurveda offers several natural remedies that can help reduce pain and promote healing. Mahanarayan oil is highly effective for joint and muscle pain, as it has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. You can apply this oil to the affected shoulder and gently massage in circular motions, focusing on the areas of tension. This helps improve circulation, relieve stiffness, and reduce pain. In addition to the oil massage, warm compresses can further help ease the pain. You may also benefit from gentle stretches like shoulder rolls or arm circles to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness, but be sure to avoid overexerting the joint. Regular practice of these treatments, along with herbal formulations like turmeric or ashwagandha (which are known for their anti-inflammatory effects), can provide relief over time. It’s important to combine these remedies with adequate rest and to avoid straining the shoulder further during the healing process.
Sure, dealing with shoulder pain can be really frustrating, especially when it starts interfering with your daily activities. Ayurveda offers some natural remedies that can help you manage the discomfort and even promote healing without having to rely solely on medications. Since you mentioned tendonitis or rotator cuff issues, addressing inflammation and supporting tissue repair is key.
First off, using herbal oils like Mahanarayan oil is a great start. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Warm a bit of Mahanarayan oil and gently massage it on the affected shoulder twice a day. Focus on gentle, circular motions and be careful not to apply too much pressure. Warm oil can penetrate deeper and aid in relaxing the muscles and joints.
You could also try Turmeric, a popular anti-inflammatory spice. Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drink it before bed. This can help manage the pain and inflammation. If you’re not into milk, you can make a paste with turmeric and a little bit of warm water and apply that to the shoulder - leave it for about 20 min before rinsing off. It’s a little messy but can be effective!
As for exercises, gently stretching the shoulder helps maintain mobility. Yoga poses like Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose) or gentle arm circles can be beneficial. Aim to hold stretches for about 20-30 seconds. Don’t push through pain. Your shoulder should feel looser after stretching, not more painful.
Oh, by the way, look into Triphala, which can aid in detoxifying and balancing your body’s systems. Consuming a teaspoon with warm water before bed can enhance digestion and support your healing process.
Listen to your body - it’s okay to rest it more on days when the pain is intense. Stay hydrated and ensure you’re getting enough rest and quality sleep - vital for recovery. It might take some time, but a consistent routine can bring relief gradually. If the pain persists or worsens, you should definitely consult a healthcare provider. Remember, safety first!

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