Could the elliptical be adding to my shoulder pain?

I've been having a problem off and on with my right shoulder/neck area for a month or more.  Had a deep tissue massage last Sat. and she really worked on it, and it's been hurting even more ever since.  She said it was really very tight.  I've been icing and using some heat.  I was wondering if using my elliptical machine could be exasperating it?  I also had a good weight lifting session on Monday where I concentrated on my arms and upper body.  Could that also do it?  I would think if I was working at building my shoulder muscles, it would support it more and make it stronger and heal it, but maybe that's wishful thinking?  I'll probably call my doc and see her next week.  She offered physical therapy for it if it got worse (that was a year ago), but I really don't have the time.  Any suggestions on what I can do for it would be appreciated.

Thanks.
Jan

depending on what the injury is, any of those activities could probably aggravate it.  I know I often feel *worse* after a massage for a few days cuz I've loosened up things that were so tight the change just hurts.

I would try and make time for the PT.  Even if you just go a few times and learn the exercises to do on your own at home....it could make all the difference!

Thanks Sue.  I've got an appointment with my doc next Wed.
Jan

Yes, all the things that you mentioned could be contributing, but one important thing you may have overlooked... POSTURE. You would be surprised to know how much poor posture can effect the upper back and neck. One thing you can try to help this is using a big exercise ball to sit on at home or at work instead of a chair with a back. This will work your core, help your balance, but most importantly, force you to sit with good posture...

 Thank Dan.  Never thought about posture.  I'll try it.

Jan

Jan,

Something else that effects me sometimes is, when is the last time I cleaned out my purse or backpack. If they get heavy, I get shoulder problems. Just a thought

Kim

You're right Kim, been there, done that.  Many years ago I switched to a purse with a long enough strap I can wear across my body.  So that shoulder isn't even affected.  But it did cause that problem long ago.

Thanks.
Jan