Description

Shoulder pain can stem from various causes, including injury, overuse, inflammation, or underlying conditions like arthritis. Common causes include rotator cuff problems, bursitis, impingement, and frozen shoulder. Shoulder pain can stem from various causes, including muscle strains, rotator cuff issues, arthritis, and bursitis. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the shoulder. Overuse, injury, or aging can all contribute to shoulder pain, making it important to identify the underlying cause for effective treatment. Common Causes of Shoulder Pain: Rotator Cuff Issues: The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Tendinitis (inflammation) or tears in these tendons can cause pain, especially during overhead movements. Arthritis: Shoulder pain can be a symptom of arthritis, a condition where the cartilage in the shoulder joint breaks down. Osteoarthritis, the most common type, causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. Bursitis: Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint. Bursitis, or inflammation of the bursae, can cause pain and tenderness. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder, making movement difficult. Muscle Strains: Overuse or injury can lead to strains in the muscles around the shoulder, causing pain and tenderness. Impingement: This occurs when tendons are compressed or pinched within the shoulder joint, often causing pain during overhead movements. Shoulder Separation: A separation, or injury to the acromioclavicular joint, can cause pain and a bump at the top of the shoulder. Dislocation: A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone dislocates from the shoulder socket, causing sudden and severe pain. Other: Shoulder pain can also be caused by nerve damage, bone spurs, or even pain referred from the neck. Symptoms of Shoulder Pain: Pain in the shoulder joint, which can be deep, dull, sharp, or burning. Stiffness and difficulty moving the shoulder. Pain that worsens with certain movements, like lifting the arm overhead. Weakness in the shoulder or upper arm. Swelling or tenderness around the joint. A feeling of the joint 'catching' or 'clicking'. Treatment: Rest and Ice: Rest the injured shoulder and apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. Physical therapy: Exercises can help strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve range of motion. Injections: In some cases, injections of corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgery: Surgery may be needed for severe injuries, like rotator cuff tears or dislocations.