Guide To The Causes Of Shoulder Pain

Torn Cartilage

Torn cartilage in the shoulder can cause significant shoulder pain. Most individuals will deal with a torn shoulder labrum. This is a soft piece of cartilage in the shoulder joint socket, and it protects and connects the ball joint in the upper arm. The rotator cuff is the group of muscles that help the labrum keep the ball in the socket. Individuals may not think about it, but this is how their arms can rotate and move.

Unfortunately, a tear in the labrum is quite painful. It is often the result of repetitive movements, falling on the arm, or a blow to the shoulder. Overstretching the arm and shoulder may also result in torn cartilage. Many patients will see success with rest, physical therapy, and pain medications when they are dealing with torn cartilage in their shoulders. Other options include cortisone injections and minimally invasive surgery.

Bursitis

Bursitis, when it occurs in the shoulders, is another common cause of shoulder pain. This condition affects the bursae, which are small and fluid-filled sacs. They exist to cushion muscles, tendons, and bones near the joints in the body, including the shoulder joints. Individuals develop bursitis when these sacs are inflamed. Common causes of this include repeated overhead lifting and throwing balls or other objects. In addition to shoulder pain, symptoms of bursitis in the shoulder include redness, swelling, and stiffness. Shoulder pain due to this condition often worsens when individuals touch or move their shoulder.

Thankfully, there are multiple treatment options. Patients should start by resting their affected shoulder. Engaging in proper lifting techniques will also help. Effective treatments include pain medication, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, corticosteroid injections, antibiotics, surgery, and physical therapy.