The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint that is essential for movement every day. If you perform manual labor, are engaged in sports, or play musical instruments, your shoulder may be more vulnerable to wear and tear. Even routine activities can wear out your shoulder and cause pain.
About 70% of men and women experience shoulder pain in their lifetime. The shoulder has a rotator cuff and four muscles that regulate its movement. Damage or inflammation in the rotator cuff can cause shoulder pain. You may feel pain when lifting your arm above your head, moving it forward, or behind your back.
Causes of Shoulder pain
There can be numerous reasons for shoulder pain, including injury or bone disease. Here are some reasons shoulder pain may occur:
1. Rotator Cuff Tear
A theater cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that connect the upper arm bone to the shoulder blade. A tear in one of these tendons can cause pain and weakness in the shoulder. Rotator cuff tears are often caused by repetitive motions, such as overhead lifting or throwing, or by degeneration due to aging.
2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
A frozen shoulder is when the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to move the arm. The exact cause of a frozen shoulder is unknown, but it often occurs after an injury or surgery or in people with medical conditions such as diabetes.
3. Bursitis
Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that helps to cushion the joint. Bursitis can be due to overuse, injury, or infection. It can cause pain and swelling in the shoulder.
4. Tendinitis
Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder, which can cause pain and difficulty moving the arm. Tendinitis usually occurs due to repetitive motions, such as those involved in sports or manual labor. It can increase pain levels and requires a checkup from the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Lahore.
5. Dislocated Shoulder
An injury in which the upper arm bone pops out of the cup-shaped socket that’s part of the shoulder blade is known as a dislocated shoulder. It can cause severe pain and make it difficult to move the arm. Dislocated shoulders are often caused by trauma, such as a fall or a blow to the shoulder.
6. Impingement Syndrome
Impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become compressed or pinched, causing pain and discomfort. Impingement syndrome can occur due to repetitive overhead motions or structural abnormalities in the shoulder.
7. Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, including the shoulder. There are several types of arthritis can, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
8. Referred Pain
Sometimes shoulder pain is caused by a problem in another part of the body, such as the neck or the spine. It is known as referred pain, causing pain, weakness, and numbness in the shoulder.
Conclusion
In addition to these common causes of shoulder pain, other conditions, such as nerve problems, infections, or tumors, can also cause shoulder pain. Consult an orthopedic surgeon in Karachi if you experience shoulder pain, as prompt treatment can help to reduce pain and improve function.
Diagnosing shoulder pain usually involves a physical examination, the patient’s medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. Treatment for shoulder pain depends on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, medications, or surgery. In some cases, simple measures such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers can effectively manage shoulder pain.
