Have members experienced shoulder and collarbone pain while standing?
Yes, several MyLupusTeam members have shared experiences with shoulder and collarbone pain. One member described "terrible pain" around the collarbone area that's "always there," sometimes on one side or both. Another mentioned feeling "like there are Show Full Answer
Have members experienced shoulder and collarbone pain while standing?
Yes, several MyLupusTeam members have shared experiences with shoulder and collarbone pain. One member described "terrible pain" around the collarbone area that's "always there," sometimes on one side or both. Another mentioned feeling "like there are 10-pound weights on their shoulders."
Members also describe how this pain affects daily activities:
* Difficulty completing everyday tasks
* Trouble sleeping
* Challenges with typing and raising arms
* Pain radiating down the arm from shoulder and neck
The pain can range from constant discomfort to severe enough that it limits movement and requires pain relief medication. What might cause this pain?
Several factors could contribute to shoulder and collarbone pain with lupus:
* Joint inflammation affecting the shoulders (very common in lupus)
* Tendinitis from overuse or inflammation
* Fibromyalgia, which affects up to 20% of people with lupus
* Medication side effects, particularly from long-term steroid use
* Referred pain from other areas like the gallbladder or diaphragm
It's important to contact your doctor if the pain limits your movement, gets worse over time, or comes with swelling. They can determine the specific cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
November 21, 2025