If you wake up with shoulder pain or you’re experiencing it more frequently, it could be down to what you drink in the morning. New research has suggested there’s a surprising link between your daily caffeine fix and the aches you might be blaming on stress, posture or sleeping funnily.
Experts suggest small lifestyle adjustments could make a big difference and if you’re in pain, cutting down on how many cups you consume may help. Dr. Louise Carter, a physiotherapist, explains: “Caffeine isn’t necessarily harmful.
“But for those prone to shoulder pain, it can add to the problem. Over time, increased muscle tension and lower pain tolerance can make minor aches more noticeable.”
Caffeine works by blocking adenosine, a chemical that helps muscles relax and reduces pain sensitivity. So whilst it’s great for keeping you alert, it can also hinder your health by tightening your muscles and making shoulder pain feel worse, especially in areas that are already strained.
Do I really need to cut out coffee or can I keep drinking it?
According to Ski Famille, health and wellness experts, shoulder pain may seem like a minor inconvenience, but left unchecked, it can significantly impact your quality of life, productivity and physical health. They add that by moderating your caffeine intake, improving posture, and adopting tension-relieving practices, you can enjoy your daily brew without sacrificing comfort.
You should try to limit your caffeine intake consumption levels below 300mg per day. This is around two to three cups of coffee.
How else can I stop shoulder pain?
You could also try swapping coffee for tea to help your muscles relax. If this isn’t your thing, try to do stretching that focuses on the neck and shoulders as this will help to alleviate tension. Exercises you should try to do include shoulder rolls, neck tilts, and doorway stretches to keep the muscles loose and improve posture.
When at work, make sure your desk setup is suited to you. This means your screen is at eye level, you’re supporting your lower back and your arms are resting comfortably at a 90-degree angle.
On your desk, be sure to have water to reach. This is because dehydration can exacerbate muscle tightness. Counteract caffeine’s dehydrating effects by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.