Pinched nerves can happen almost anywhere in the body, including the shoulders. These occur when the bones, muscles, or other tissues put too much pressure on them. Several factors contribute to pinched nerves, including arthritis, diabetes, obesity, or overuse. Although they can be uncomfortable, compressed nerves are rarely serious and easily improve with proper treatment.
Sometimes, a shoulder pinched nerve is mistaken for other conditions, such as tendonitis or arthritis, since the symptoms can overlap. Recovery time also varies depending on the cause and severity, ranging from a few days to several weeks.
Although rest is important, massage and exercise are also vital for healing a pinched nerve. Physical therapy teaches various movements and stretches to target the affected area and speed up recovery. Follow the guidelines set by your medical team to ensure a safe and effective recovery. For more information on pinched nerves, keep reading.
Signs of a Pinched Nerve in Your Shoulder
Regardless of where a pinched nerve occurs, the symptoms are similar 1. You’ll often feel sharp or burning pain in the shoulder or other affected area. You may also experience tingling, numbness, or loss of feeling.
Muscle weakness is another common symptom of a pinched nerve, making neck, shoulder, and arm movements difficult. These symptoms may worsen with overuse or when you’re sleeping.
What can be mistaken for a shoulder pinched nerve?
A pinched nerve in the shoulder isn’t always easy to diagnose since several other conditions create similar symptoms. For instance, tendonitis also causes pain, tenderness, and weakness, especially when moving the joint 2.
Various types of arthritis also affect the shoulder, worsening over time and causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion 3. Other shoulder issues, including fractures, instability, or impingement, may also cause some of the same symptoms as a pinched nerve 4. However, some of these conditions also include swelling, lumps, or other signs that make them easier to diagnose.
How long will it last?
Pinched nerves in the shoulder and other areas of the body are more common than you may realize. According to experts, they may occur from odd positioning when sitting or lying down, or when your limbs “fall asleep” 5. Various conditions can also compress nerves, like arthritis or trauma to the area.
How long a pinched nerve lasts depends on the cause and the severity of the damage. Most pinched nerves are minor, with pain only lasting a day or two. However, some chronic conditions or serious injuries may result in long-lasting issues. If the pain and other symptoms last a week or more, it’s best to seek medical care.
Will it fix on its own?
According to medical professionals, minor pinched nerves in the shoulder heal on their own 6. Of course, you need to take it easy and rest the area to give the injury time to heal. You can also help reduce discomfort and inflammation using over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medications, and ice/heat treatments.
Exercises may also help relieve the pain of a pinched nerve 7. Stretching improves flexibility and relieves stiffness in the shoulder, so it’s more comfortable to move. Strengthening exercises are also recommended to reduce pressure and build muscle. You may also want to try massaging the joint to reduce swelling and relax the muscles.
Resources:
- Mayo Clinic, Pinched Nerve
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pinched-nerve/symptoms-causes/syc-20354746 - Massachusetts General Hospital, Shoulder Tendonitis
https://www.massgeneral.org/orthopaedics/sports-medicine/conditions-and-treatments/shoulder-tendonitis - Johns Hopkins Medicine, Shoulder Arthritis
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/shoulder-arthritis - OrthoInfo, Shoulder Pain and Common Shoulder Problems
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/shoulder-pain-and-common-shoulder-problems/ - Cleveland Clinic, June 25, 2024, Pinched Nerve
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6481-pinched-nerves - Integris Health, July 25, 2025, Treating a Pinched Nerve in Neck or Shoulder
https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/got-a-pinched-nerve-strategies-and-treatments-for-pain-relief - Harvard Health Publishing, Nov. 21, 2025, Got a pinched nerve? Strategies and treatments for pain relief
https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/got-a-pinched-nerve-strategies-and-treatments-for-pain-relief
This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.
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