Shoulder pain can affect mobility and daily function. The shoulder joint’s extensive range of motion makes it prone to various issues, so identifying the specific cause is a necessary step toward management. Understanding the source of the discomfort, whether it stems from a sudden injury, gradual wear, or an inflammatory condition, provides clarity. Here is more information about what causes shoulder pain and how to identify the source of pain:
Accident Injuries
Sudden trauma is a typical source of shoulder pain. A forceful impact might cause a rotator cuff tear, which involves damage to the group of muscles and tendons stabilizing the joint, or it could lead to a labral tear where the cartilage rim of the socket is damaged. A joint sprain, resulting from a fall directly onto the shoulder, is another typical acute injury. These injuries may produce immediate and distinct pain.
Overuse Injuries
Repetitive motions can lead to overuse injuries that develop over time. Shoulder impingement occurs when the space narrows between the top of the shoulder blade and the rotator cuff tendons, and this friction causes pain and irritation. Activities that require repeated overhead arm movements, such as swimming or painting, may contribute to this condition.
Because they develop gradually, these types of injuries might be ignored until the pain becomes more persistent. Some overuse injuries affect the tendons directly. Overuse can lead to tendonitis, a condition where the tendons become inflamed, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Tendinopathy describes the breakdown of collagen in a tendon, which causes pain and reduced flexibility. This condition differs from tendonitis because it involves long-term degeneration rather than acute inflammation. Recognizing the pattern of activity that aggravates the pain helps in identifying this type of overuse problem.
Osteoarthritis Conditions
Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis (OA), is a prevalent cause of shoulder pain, especially in older adults. This condition involves the gradual wearing down of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones, and it leads to bones rubbing against each other. The resulting friction causes pain, stiffness, and a grating sensation during movement. Osteoarthritis in the shoulder generally develops gradually over many years, sometimes without obvious symptoms initially.
Bursitis or Tendonitis
Inflammation is another primary source of shoulder discomfort and pain. The small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles around the joint may become inflamed, a condition known as bursitis. Tendonitis refers to the inflammation of a tendon, frequently affecting the rotator cuff or biceps tendon. These conditions can arise from repetitive minor impacts or a sudden, more serious injury. Typical signs include:
- Localized pain and swelling
- Tenderness when pressing on the area
- Pain during specific movements
Get Treated for Shoulder Pain
Many conditions can produce shoulder pain, but a precise diagnosis is the first step toward addressing the issue. A healthcare professional can help you understand the origin of your discomfort after a thorough evaluation is completed. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, scheduling an appointment for an assessment is a practical next step.
