Shoulder pain is a common discomfort, especially in working adults over the age of 50. Studies suggest that, in addition to seniors, it is also common in physically active individuals.
Shoulder aches should not be a cause for concern as most conditions are only temporary and clear up by themselves by applying a cold compress and or after ample rest. However, if this pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s time to visit an orthopedic doctor.
There are many reasons why you are currently experiencing shoulder discomfort. Shoulder pain is usually divided into four main categories: inflammation, instability, arthritis, or injury. Read on below to know more.
What is shoulder pain?
The shoulder has a ball and socket joint surrounded and supported by functional structures, such as the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fluid-filled sacs. They all work together to maintain the shoulder’s incredible flexibility and range of motion.
Shoulder pain typically arises when one of the above-mentioned structures gets compromised due to overuse, traumatic injury, or a degenerative condition. Most shoulder discomfort caused by a certain condition comes with other debilitating symptoms, such as:
- Swelling or inflammation
- Tenderness and soreness
- Muscle weakness
- Obvious deformity
- Limited range of motion
- Reduced flexibility
- Mobility problems
The pain may manifest in many ways (e.g., stabbing pain, burning pain) depending on the root cause. Some symptoms may develop gradually, while others can occur suddenly. But in most cases, shoulder pain typically gets exacerbated when moving or during an activity.
What are the common causes of shoulder pain?
Here are some of the most common culprits of your shoulder pain:
- Tendinitis
An inflammation in one of the tendons (rotator cuff or bicep) in the shoulder that attaches a muscle to a bone. It typically causes pain and tenderness in the shoulder, but these symptoms can worsen if left unaddressed. Shoulder tendinitis may be caused by repetitive shoulder use, traumatic injury, or the result of a degenerative condition.
- Bursitis
An inflammation in the shoulder’s bursa or the fluid-filled sac that lubricates and cushions the joint to allow seamless movement. When this happens, the bursa will fill up with excess fluid, causing it to swell and put pressure on its neighboring structures, especially during motion.
Bursitis is usually the result of repetitive overhead shoulder movements, repeated injuries, and sometimes, infections.
- Rotator cuff injury
This results in a tear or damage in one or more of the four small tendons that surround the shoulder joint and ensures its stability. A rotator cuff may get sustained damage as a result of an injury, such as when you fall on an outstretched hand. It may also develop due to overuse and degeneration.
- Labral tear
A labrum is a specialized cartilage tissue in the socket that keeps the ball of the humerus stable and in place. So when it gets damaged, individuals may feel pain, shoulder instability, and a popping sound or grinding sensation in the shoulder joint.
The most common cause of labral tears is traumas, such as fractures or dislocation. But it can also happen to people who repetitively use their shoulders.
- Fracture
A partial or complete break in one or more of the bone structures in the shoulder, such as the collarbone, upper arm bone, and shoulder blade. Most fractures happen due to a violent and direct blow to the shoulders due to motor vehicle accidents, falls, or high-speed collisions.
An individual with a fracture can experience moderate to severe pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness. The shoulder may also look deformed and feels like it will slip out of the socket.
- Dislocation
An injury wherein the ball of the humerus gets dislocated or pops out of its socket. This injury causes immediate and extreme pain and instability in the shoulders. Additionally, it may also result in torn or loose muscles and ligaments.
- Osteoarthritis
A progressive and degenerative condition wherein the cartilage gradually sustains wear and tears due to overuse. Arthritis may also be caused by other conditions, such as rotator cuff injury, joint inflammation, and infection.
Over time, symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness can worsen as the shoulder bones rub against each other during movement.
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Similar to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis also causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the shoulder joints. However, this happens because of the body’s own immune system attacking the joint’s synovium, which lines the joint capsule.
As the disease progresses, the synovial membrane will produce excessive synovial fluid, thus making the tissue swell. This, then, is what causes the pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis.
Who is at risk of shoulder injuries and disorders?
Anyone can sustain shoulder injuries and develop shoulder-related conditions. However, some people are more vulnerable and likely to get it than others. This includes the following:
- Seniors due to the natural wear and tear in the structures surrounding the shoulder joint.
- Overweight or obese individuals
- Athletes play high-contact sports, such as football, baseball, tennis, and swimming.
- Manual laborers who frequently use their shoulders to lift heavy objects or perform repetitive motions.
- Individuals born with congenital disorders or deformities, such as a hooked acromion or prominent coracoid.
- People with poor posture.
When should you seek a shoulder specialist in Miami?
Sudden and acute shoulder injuries (e.g., fracture, dislocation) should be medically dealt with immediately. If you have minor shoulder pain, you can try home care remedies, such as resting the shoulder, putting in a cold compress, or taking OTC pain medications.
However, it’s time to schedule a visit to your orthopedic doctor if:
- The pain does not get better with conservative treatment options.
- The pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as inflammation, tenderness, redness, and muscle weakness.
- The pain is severe enough to disrupt normal shoulder function and limits mobility.
- The pain affects your quality of life.
Get the best shoulder care and treatment at South FL Orthopedics
South Florida International Orthopaedics is one of the leading providers of orthopedic care and treatment in Miami and the surrounding area. Our board-certified orthopedic specialists are well-equipped and trained to diagnose, manage, and treat various orthopedic injuries, including shoulder-related ones. We also specialize in other practice areas, such as:
And more!
Contact us now to learn more!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
