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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is it lupus joint pain or something else pain im from elbow up to my shoulder

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sherwood, OR

Saturday it started with my shoulder hurting , so worked it out did Rom exercises despite hearing popping sounds why doing it , yesterday it hurt to move. Or do anything with kept trying to move it & work it out. Last night while i slept im a right side sleeper. & its my left shoulder that hurts, i had to prop it on a pillow to keep my arm level with shoulder so it wouldn't hurt so bad & i could get sleep. Today the pains from shoulder down my arm & into my elbow? I couldn't lift my coffee cup… read more

July 7, 2025
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a question about worsening shoulder and arm pain, helping to figure out whether it was lupus-related joint pain or... Read more

Members rallied around a question about worsening shoulder and arm pain, helping to figure out whether it was lupus-related joint pain or something else, like a rotator cuff injury or radiculopathy. Several members shared their own experiences, including one who had a full rotator cuff tear requiring surgery, and another who found relief through a steroid injection from an orthopedic doctor after their rheumatologist was unhelpful. A recurring theme was the importance of seeing a primary care doctor soon, trying ice and gentle movement to avoid frozen shoulder, and not giving up on finding doctors who treat the whole person.

MyLupusTeam

Joint pain and stiffness affecting the shoulders and upper arms is very common with lupus, affecting about 95% of people with the condition. The symptoms you're describing - difficulty lifting objects, limited range of motion, and worsening pain - are consistent with lupus joint inflammation. The popping sounds and Show Full Answer

Joint pain and stiffness affecting the shoulders and upper arms is very common with lupus, affecting about 95% of people with the condition. The symptoms you're describing - difficulty lifting objects, limited range of motion, and worsening pain - are consistent with lupus joint inflammation. The popping sounds and increasing pain suggest you should seek medical attention rather than continuing to work through the pain. Given that the pain is on your left side and getting progressively worse, you should not wait to have this evaluated. While it could be lupus-related joint inflammation, left-sided arm/shoulder pain can sometimes indicate serious heart issues, which people with lupus are at higher risk for. Contact your PCP for an immediate evaluation rather than waiting for your rheumatologist appointment. In the meantime, stop doing ROM exercises that cause pain and popping. Consider using pillows for support while sleeping as you've been doing. Your symptoms deserve attention from both your PCP and rheumatologist - it's appropriate to bring up any joint pain with your rheumatologist, not just hand pain. If your current rheumatologist isn't receptive to discussing all your symptoms, consider asking your PCP for a referral to a different specialist who will address all your concerns.

July 7, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Seeing an orthopedic surgeon is a great idea, @A MyLupusTeam Member, as your other doctors aren't helping, Teresa.

July 11, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Keep searching, Teresa, as there are doctors who care and are knowledgeable.

July 10, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Thank you, i tried ROM today im really it hurts to move now it aches i thought maybe it was getting better i was hopeful im wrong ill call my pcp this afternoon or tomorrow,

July 8, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had these same symptoms. It ended up being a full tear in my rotator cuff. I ended up needing surgery. Get it checked out. You don’t want to get frozen shoulder. That will limit your mobility. It’s horrible.

July 8, 2025

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