Other interventions beyond physical therapy may be recommended. Anti-inflammatory medicines commonly help. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for a time, corticosteroid injections, or, in severe and persistent cases, surgery. But most of the time, shoulder pain treatment responds well to non-operative types of medical care. Short-term use of over-the-counter ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, or aspirin (without caffeine) can reduce inflammation, joint, and muscle pain. Consider using a combination of ibuprofen and Tylenol before bedtime to relieve pain with sleep. Avoid opioid medications since it increases pain over time.