Health

Understanding the underlying causes of shoulder pain

Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors, from overuse injuries to underlying medical conditions. Understanding the root of your pain is crucial in finding effective treatment. Read on to learn about the ten most common causes of shoulder pain by mariabutler
Estimated reading time: 2 min 34 sec
Understanding the underlying causes of shoulder pain Photo by Ryutaro Tsukata on Pexels

Shoulder pain can be debilitating, interfering with daily tasks like getting dressed, reaching for objects, and even sleeping comfortably.

With the shoulder joint being the most flexible joint in the body, it’s no wonder that it’s also one of the most commonly injured. In this article, we’ll explore the ten most common underlying causes of shoulder pain.

1. Overuse injury

Overuse injuries are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, especially in individuals who engage in repetitive activities like sports or manual labor.

These types of injuries often manifest as tendinitis or bursitis, which are conditions caused by inflammation of the tendons or bursae surrounding the shoulder joint.

2. Rotator cuff tear

A rotator cuff tear is another common injury that can cause shoulder pain. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that connect the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone.

A tear in this area can cause significant pain and weakness in the shoulder, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities.

3. Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are many different types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder joint, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. The condition typically develops slowly over time and can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

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5. Bursitis

Bursitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and muscles. When the bursae become inflamed, it can cause pain and swelling around the affected joint.

6. Tendonitis

Tendonitis, or inflammation of a tendon, is a common condition that can affect the shoulder joint. Individuals who engage in repetitive activities like sports or manual labor are at an increased risk of developing tendonitis in the shoulder.

7. Impingement syndrome

Impingement syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed or pinched as they pass through the shoulder joint. This can cause pain and weakness in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm overhead.

8. Labral tear

A labral tear is a tear in the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. This can cause pain, weakness, and instability in the shoulder, especially during activities that require overhead movements.

9. Fractures

A fracture, or broken bone, can also cause shoulder pain. Fractures can occur in any of the bones that make up the shoulder joint, including the upper arm bone, shoulder blade, and collarbone.

10. Underlying medical conditions

Finally, underlying medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease can all contribute to shoulder pain. These conditions can cause inflammation throughout the body, which can lead to pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint.

Overall, there are many different underlying causes of shoulder pain, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment options.

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, it’s important to see a healthcare provider to determine the root cause of your pain and develop an effective treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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