The shoulder is a unique joint that allows for a wide range of motion, but this also makes it less stable than other joints. Injuries can happen because the upper arm’s ball is bigger than the shoulder socket. To help keep the shoulder in place, it relies on soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These tissues can be easily damaged from overuse, underuse, or accidents.
Here are some common causes of shoulder pain:
Dislocation: When the shoulder joint pops out of place, it can cause pain and limit movement.
Separation: This happens when the bones in the shoulder get pulled apart, often from a fall or a hit.
Impingement syndrome: When shoulder tissues get pinched, it can cause pain and make it hard to lift the arm.
Tendinosis: This is when the tendons in the shoulder become weak or damaged, often from overuse.
Rotator cuff tear: A tear in the shoulder’s rotator cuff can cause pain and make it difficult to move the arm.
Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder): This condition makes the shoulder stiff and painful, limiting its movement.