My shoulder muscle hurts & feels hot on the inside, does that mean inflammation? would heat or cold help? and any other advice you would suggest?

?bursitis: could be deltoid bursitis. does it hurt when you move it? does it hurt when you try to lift something? yes, it means inflammation. ice paks alternated with warm wet compresses and gentle exercising range of motion may help. ibuprofen 800 three times a day may help. if no better after few days, see orthopedic doc to avoid frozen shoulder problems.

Tricky: Without an actual examination, I cannot give specific medical advice on your particular health. Irritation of the tendons holding the arm onto the shoulder (rotator cuff) is pretty common--doesn't generally burn. Nerve irritation burns, but generally extends out from one area along the nerve internal would imply joint irritation. Cortisone shots often good, NSAIDS, phys ther/massage maybe warmth.

Yes: Pain and heat usually indicate inflammation. I would use ice for 24-48 hours (20 minutes on every couple hours). Ibuprofen for the pain is helpful. Avoid movements that increase pain for a couple days as well.

Could be inflamed..: You may have strained muscle in your shoulder, the tendon that connects shoulder muscles to the bone or the ligaments that hold the bones of the shoulder joint together.. It is best to use ice during the first 24-72 hours after hurting yourself to help inflammation. You can also take antiinflammatory medicine like ibuprophen or naproxen to help the pain.

See doc: Make sure you didn't tear the rotator cuff. You should see a physician to properly evaluate it. You could take tylenol (acetaminophen) or advil depending on your medical history.