Shoulder pain refers to any form of discomfort experienced in or around the shoulder joint. The symptoms of shoulder pain can range from mild, characterized by a gradual dull ache over a few weeks, to a sudden and intense sharp pain. The shoulder joint is the most flexible joint in the human body, enabling us to perform actions like throwing objects, reaching across our body, and raising our arms above our heads. However, this increased mobility also makes the shoulder more susceptible to injuries due to its complex structure and numerous moving components.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Warmth or redness in your shoulder
- Neck pain, arm pain, or back pain
- A clicking, popping, or grinding sensation when you move your arm
- Muscle stiffness and weakness
- Limited range of motion
Causes
Arthritis:
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and rigidity. It encompasses various types such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The management of this condition typically involves the use of medication, therapy, and making necessary lifestyle modifications.
Bone Fractures:
Shoulder bone fractures are the result of one or multiple bones in the shoulder being fractured, typically caused by trauma or excessive force. Fractures commonly involve the clavicle (collarbone), humerus (upper arm bone), and scapula (shoulder blade)..
Torn tendons:
Torn tendons occur when the fibrous tissues connecting muscles to bones are partially or completely ruptured, often due to overuse, trauma, or degeneration. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and limited mobility in the affected area, commonly in joints like the shoulder and elbow.
Shoulder dislocation:
Shoulder dislocation happens when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, usually due to a sudden impact or extreme rotation. This leads to severe pain, swelling, and instability in the shoulder joint.
Complications
Most broken collarbones heal without difficulty. Complications, when they occur, might include:
- Limited Mobility.
- Muscle Weakness.
- Frozen Shoulder.
- Impingement Syndrome.
- Psychological Effects.