Shoulder pain can be disruptive and frustrating, but understanding the root cause is the first step toward effective relief and prevention.
Whether it’s due to overuse, injury, or underlying medical conditions, pinpointing the source of your shoulder pain is crucial. Below are the top ten causes of shoulder pain observed by orthopedic specialists:
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Rotator Cuff Injuries
One of the primary causes of shoulder pain is damage to the rotator cuff. These are the muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, allowing for a wide range of motion. Rotator cuff injuries often occur due to repetitive overhead motions or sudden trauma. A rotator cuff may be treated either through nonsurgical or surgical means.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis refers to the inflammation of tendons, which connect muscles to bones. When the tendons in your shoulder become inflamed, it can lead to pain and restricted movement. This condition can result from overuse, aging, work or sports-related activities.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically progresses through stages, starting with pain and leading to a limited range of motion. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is still not fully understood, but it often occurs after prolonged immobility or injury.
Bursitis
Bursae are fluid-filled sacs located in your shoulder joint that cushion your bones, tendons and muscles. When the bursae in your shoulder becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. Overuse, trauma, or underlying medical conditions can contribute to bursitis.
Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis can be categorized as either osteoarthritis (wear and tear of the joint) or rheumatoid/inflammatory arthritis. These can result in shoulder pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Torn Cartilage
The cartilage in your shoulder joint can become damaged or torn due to injury or degeneration. This can lead to pain, especially when moving the shoulder.
Nerve Compression
Conditions such as cervical radiculopathy or thoracic outlet syndrome can lead to nerve compression in the neck and shoulder region. This can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the shoulder and arm.
Heart-Related Issues
In some cases, shoulder pain may be a referred symptom of heart problems like angina or a heart attack. It’s essential to rule out these serious conditions if you experience sudden, severe shoulder pain along with other symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.
Posture and Overuse
Poor posture, carrying heavy bags, or overusing your shoulder muscles can strain and cause pain in the shoulder area. Correcting posture and avoiding excessive strain can help prevent this type of pain.
Infection or Tumor
While less common, shoulder pain can also be caused by infections or tumors. These cases often require immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Simple habits like maintaining good posture, practicing shoulder-strengthening exercises, and avoiding activities that put excessive strain on your shoulders can go a long way in preventing shoulder pain. By taking these steps, you can minimize the chances of shoulder discomfort interfering with your daily life and regain the freedom to move pain-free.
Schedule an Appointment with a Shoulder Specialist
Consult with one of the shoulder specialists at EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region for personalized guidance and tailored treatment options today.
Self-Schedule Your Appointment
