Unveiling the Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Jul 30, 2024

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The shoulder, a marvel of mobility, is a complex assembly of joints, muscles, and tendons granting us an extensive range of motion. But with great mobility comes the potential for discomfort—shoulder pain can be an unwelcome guest, appearing either as a constant ache or as an occasional visitor when moving your arm in specific ways.

When experiencing shoulder pain, a visit to the doctor can result in a diagnosis of simple inflammation needing rest, or something more concerning might be identified. Let's delve deeper into the common culprits behind shoulder pain:

Tendonitis

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Impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when the shoulder blade exerts pressure on the underlying soft tissues as the arm is lifted, causing pain and restricting movement. Treatment focuses on avoiding aggravating activities, gentle stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications.

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Tendon Tears

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Broken Collarbone

Commonly resulting from sports injuries, falls, or car accidents, a broken collarbone causes sharp pain that intensifies with movement. This injury also leads to difficulty in arm movement and may be accompanied by bruising, tenderness, and swelling.

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Bursitis

Tiny, fluid-filled sacs known as bursae cushion the bones at your joints. Overuse can inflame these sacs, particularly around the rotator cuff in the shoulder, leading to pain that typically resolves with rest over a few weeks, although it may occasionally reoccur.

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Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a frequent cause of shoulder pain, marked by gradual onset of pain, swelling, and stiffness, usually among middle-aged individuals. It may result from injury or daily wear and tear. Treatment typically involves rest, activity modification, and icing the affected area to reduce inflammation.

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Frozen Shoulder

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Dislocated Shoulder

When the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, whether from injury or repeated use, you're dealing with a dislocation. This painful condition can be partial or complete and often leads to recurring issues and an increased risk of arthritis.

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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)

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Winged Scapula

This condition, where the shoulder blade protrudes abnormally, can cause significant discomfort and is often due to poor posture or nerve damage. Treatment options include physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery, particularly for severe or persistent cases.

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Avascular Necrosis

This condition involves the loss of blood supply to the bones, potentially leading to joint and bone damage if it occurs near the shoulder. Early stages may not be painful, but as the condition progresses, the pain can become severe, highlighting the need for early detection and intervention.

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Shoulder Fracture

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Heart Attack

Shoulder pain can unexpectedly be a symptom of a heart attack, especially in women. The pain may begin in the chest and spread to the shoulders, emphasizing the importance of recognizing this potential sign and seeking immediate medical attention.

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SLAP Tear

Resulting from repetitive overhead motions, a SLAP tear affects the ring of cartilage around the shoulder socket and can cause vague, aching pain. Athletes in sports involving throwing, tennis, or swimming are particularly susceptible. Treatment generally includes physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications.

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Sprains

Sprains occur when ligaments in the shoulder are stretched or torn, leading to substantial pain that may radiate down the arm or to the chest. These injuries require proper medical assessment and treatment to heal effectively.

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Brachial Plexus Injury

Injuries to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that conducts signals from the spine to the arm and hand, can result from trauma or repetitive stress. Symptoms include pain, loss of sensation, and weakness in the arm, requiring careful management to restore function and alleviate discomfort.

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