Is your shoulder pain disrupting sleep?
You are not alone. Many people with shoulder issues notice their discomfort seems to worsen at night — making it hard to fall asleep or causing them to wake in pain. That nighttime agony isn’t just in your head; it often points to underlying shoulder conditions.
Here’s a breakdown of the common causes, helpful tips, and when to see a specialist (like us at Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group) to get relief.
Rotator Cuff Injuries / Tendinopathy
Damage or inflammation in the rotator cuff tendons is one of the top culprits behind shoulder pain that worsens at night.
Overuse during the day, microscopic tendon wear, or sudden tears can all provoke inflammation that intensifies when your arm rests.
Bursitis (Inflamed Bursa)
The shoulder has small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion tendons and bones. When they become inflamed (bursitis), even light pressure—like lying on your shoulder—can cause sharp or aching pain.
Shoulder Arthritis / Joint Degeneration
As cartilage wears down and bone contact increases, irritation and inflammation rise. Many patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder report that their joint “hurts more” at night.
Sleep Position & Mechanical Pressure
Sleeping on the affected shoulder, or in awkward postures, applies pressure that aggravates irritated tissues. Also, when muscles relax, there’s less support and more tension on injured structures.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
With stiffness, limited range, and chronic inflammation, frozen shoulder can be especially painful at night.
Inflammation builds during rest: When you are less active, swelling in the joint or soft tissues can become more noticeable.
Less “distraction”: During the day, movement and other sensations mask discomfort. At night, there’s nothing else to focus on.
Gravity and tissue stress: With different arm position when lying down, certain tendons or joints may be under more load.
Circulation and tissue compression: Some positions may reduce blood flow or compress structures in your shoulder, worsening pain.
Change your sleeping position
Try sleeping on your back or on the unaffected side. If you must lie on the sore side, use pillows to relieve pressure.
Use pillows smartly
Place a pillow under your elbow or forearm, or between your body and arm, to offload stress from the shoulder.
Ice or heat before bed
If inflammation is the issue, ice (wrapped in cloth) for 10–15 minutes may help. If your pain feels more muscular, a warm compress might relax tissues. (Always check with your doctor or therapist.)
Gentle stretching and mobility work
Light stretches (within pain limits) can restore flexibility and reduce stiffness. Consistency is key.
Optimize mattress / support
A medium-firm mattress and a supportive pillow that keeps your neck in alignment can reduce secondary strain.
Medication timing
If you’re on an anti-inflammatory or pain reliever (as prescribed), taking a dose before bed (per your doctor’s direction) may help blunt the worst of the night pain.
If your nighttime shoulder pain is severe, ongoing, or accompanied by:
Weakness or inability to lift or move your arm
Sudden onset after trauma or injury
Pain that doesn’t improve after a few weeks of self-care
Swelling, redness, or warmth
Nerve symptoms like tingling, numbness, or radiating pain
…then it’s time to see an orthopedic shoulder specialist.
At Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group, our shoulder experts are skilled in diagnosing the root cause—whether it’s a rotator cuff tear, bursitis, arthritis, or more—and crafting a personalized plan that includes non-surgical options, physical therapy, injection therapies, or surgery when needed.
Board-certified, fellowship-trained shoulder specialists
Advanced diagnostics (MRI, ultrasound, imaging)
Patient-centered plans—no cookie-cutters
Expertise in arthroscopic and minimally invasive shoulder surgery
Full continuum of care from evaluation to rehab
If you’re losing sleep over shoulder pain, don’t ignore it. The sooner we diagnose and treat, the better your chances for lasting relief.
Contact Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group today to schedule a shoulder evaluation and get back to better sleep (and better function).
