Common causes of pain or discomfort in the
shoulder include:
Arthritis
Bicipital tendinitis
Bursitis
Rotator cuff tendonitis
Trauma or injury to the shoulder
There may be other causes of shoulder pain
which may vary based on age and gender of the affected person,
as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such
as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving
factors, and associated complaints.
Pain located around the shoulder is infrequently
serious. Most of the time the pain comes from the ligaments or
tendons near the joint and not from the joint itself. However,
you should contact your health care provider if:
The pain is felt as a pressure, heaviness,
or pain behind the breastbone that is referred to the shoulder.
There is fever, swelling and redness, or
inability to use the joint.
The pain is caused by an injury.
The pain persists beyond one week.
At your physician office, your medical history
will be obtained and a physical examination performed. The physical
examination will include a detailed examination of the shoulder.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed vary depending on the results
of the physical examination.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
