Rotator cuff tendinitis can be cured at home if the injury is not very severe. In addition, some home remedies such as essential oils for rotator cuffs may ease the symptoms naturally.
A rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons surrounding your shoulder joint. [1]
It holds the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket.
A rotator cuff injury may cause a fading ache in your shoulder. It often gets worse when you sleep leaning on the affected side. [2]
Painters, carpenters, or people who play tennis or baseball are at high risk of injuries.
This article looks into some essential oils for rotator cuff pain that you may try at home.
Essential Oils for Rotator Cuff Pain to Ease the Symptoms
Some rely on aromatherapy to relieve aches, pains, and sore muscles.
Essential oils contain potent analgesic (pain relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties. [3]
Some essential oils can relieve pain and inflammation due to the rotator cuff.
Remember, these essential oils are complementary remedies that may relieve some symptoms.
These oils aren’t alternative treatment options for rotator cuff injury. Always consult with your physician before you use any of the essential oils.
1. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most famous essential oils for treating joint pain and aches. It has analgesic properties to relieve muscle pains and rotator cuff tendinitis inflammation.
Lavender essential oil is effective for neck, shoulder, and lower back pain. The aromatic oil is good for the well-being of your mental health too.
Read More: 11 Health Benefits of Lavender Oil That You Should Know
2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has numerous benefits for your health. It is a cost-effective and easily available therapeutic oil.
Peppermint oil is one of the few essential oils considered safe for internal usage. You can find it in toothpaste, teas, and gums.
It’s suitable for topical use to heal a torn rotator cuff naturally.
Peppermint oil can help to relieve headaches and other pain in the body.
Peppermint oil is a great massage oil in aromatherapy. It can relax your sore muscles and for other normal pains and aches. [4]
Read More: Peppermint Oil for Hair: 8 Reasons to Use
3. Chamomile Oil
Inflammation is a major cause of pain in rotator cuff tendinitis.
According to research, chamomile oil is an effective anti-inflammatory agent. Thus, it can aid you from the pain in joints and muscles. [5]
A few drops of chamomile essential oil can naturally help you get rid of rotator cuff pain.
You can add it to your warm bath to reduce weariness and ease pain from any part of your body.
4. Clary Sage Oil
Clary sage oil helps with the nervous system, asthmatic conditions, rheumatic fevers, depression, aches and pains in the body, etc. [6]
Clary sage oil is famous as a massaging oil as it helps relieve muscle cramps and spasms.
It contains a powerful relaxing component. The oil is often combined with chamomile oil to relieve stress and tension.
5. Marjoram Oil
Marjoram oil is an effective pain reliever. It is mildly sedative.
It also works for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid. Marjoram oil can be a perfect choice for shoulder tendonitis and other pains. [7]
Marjoram oil is best for treating migraines, insomnia, diarrhea, and dysmenorrhea.
You may experience insomnia and fatigue due to the extreme pain of the rotator cuff.
Marjoram essential oil in a warm bath can make you feel much better.
How to Use Essential Oils for Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Pain
- You can use any of the above essential oils by adding them to 2-3 drops of jojoba or other carrier oil.
- Rub the oils on your shoulder, neck, upper arm, and underarm area to get relief from the pain.
- After applying the oil on the shoulder, place a hot water bottle or heating pad for about 10 to 15 minutes. It will let the oil penetrate your shoulder joint.
- Repeat the treatment 2-3 times daily to heal rotator cuff injury and pain naturally.
- Wash your hands after applying the oil to avoid the oils getting to your eyes.
Causes of Rotator Cuff
The risk of your getting a rotator cuff increases with your age.
This type of shoulder pain is quite common if you are over 30.
If not treated on time, this condition may cause weakness and stiffness in your shoulder.
You may develop rotator cuff tendinitis if the tendons get swollen or damaged.
The condition usually happens due to an injury to your shoulder.
You may get a rotator cuff if your job involves heavy lifting or a lot of the same movement. For example, you are playing sports.
Generally, people over 40 are at high risk of getting rotator cuff problems.
Genes also play a significant part in this. If someone in your family has shoulder issues, you will most likely get it. [8]
Symptoms of Torn Rotator Cuff
Possible signs of a rotator cuff injury include:
- You may feel a dull pain in the shoulder.
- You may experience disturbed sleep if you lie on the affected side of your shoulder.
- You may also find it hard to perform simple tasks such as combing your hair or reaching your back.
- The rotator cuff injury will cause weakness in your arms. [9]
Precautions
It would help if you were always careful while using essential oils, especially topical ones.
- Always conduct a patch test before you use them. If there’s an allergic reaction, do not proceed.
- Some of the essential oils are quite potent. Always dilute them with a good carrier oil before you apply it to your skin.
- Do not use any essential oils without consulting with your doctor.
When to See a Doctor
Pain due to rotator cuff injury can be excruciating. As a result, you may not continue with your daily activities.
These essential oils will reduce some pain. But if the symptoms become severe, you must consult a doctor.
Ask for medical attention if there’s sudden swelling, intense pain, and difficulty moving your arm.
Bottom Line
Rotator cuff injuries are common among people who make frequent overhead motions. However, it may happen to athletes as well.
Sometimes, rotator cuff tears may happen because of a single injury. In such circumstances, seek medical help immediately.
Severe rotator cuff tears may need surgery, transfer of alternative tendons, or joint replacement. [2]
The pain from rotator cuff injury can be excruciating. But using the essential oils mentioned above may heal your pain to a great extent.
Rotator cuff injury requires an immediate cure. It gets worse if left untreated.
If the pain is severe and is not being cured at home, you should consult a doctor.
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