Pain In The Shoulder and Common Shoulder Problems
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What are the Joints of the Shoulder?
The shoulder is made up of 4 joints. These include:
- Glenohumeral Joint (GH) – The ball and socket where the arm attaches
- Acromioclavicular Joint (AC) – The joint that connects the scapula to the collar bone (clavicle)
- Sternoclavicular Joint (SC) – The joint that connects the clavicle to the sternum
- Scapulothoracic Joint – The connection between the scapula and the thoracic chest wall
These joints are connected by numerous ligaments and muscles that coordinate to allow extensive movement and function of the shoulder.
To learn more about Shoulder Anatomy, this VIDEO may help.
Image of Shoulder Anatomy
What Causes the Pain in My Shoulder?
The quick answer is that shoulder pain can have many causes. Some injuries in the shoulder come from trauma or overuse. Others come from wear and tear and repetitive stress. Either way, shoulder pain can severely limit your daily activity and function. Inflammation, instability, muscle tears, arthritis and fractures are the most common causes of pain.
Some other common shoulder issues include:
- Impingement
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labrum tears
- Shoulder bursitis
- Rotator Cuff tendonitis
- Biceps tendonitis
- Frozen Shoulder
How do I Know if Pain on the Shoulder is Serious?
Several types of shoulder injuries require immediate medical care. If you think you have one of these, you should go to the emergency department or an urgent care center. These injuries include:
- Separated Shoulder – This is an injury where there is trauma to the Acromioclavicular joint (AC joint) and the shoulder appears to sit lower on one side. This is typically tested by measuring the space between the collar-bone (clavicle) and the end in the shoulder blade bone (Acromion of the Scapula). This also recognized by a difference when compared to the other side. Pain is typically present as well
- Dislocated Shoulder– A dislocated shoulder typically occurs with trauma with the arm outstretched. The shoulder can dislocate in multiple directions. This is due to the great range of mobility that exists in the shoulder. A shoulder dislocation may also lead to a tear in the labrum or tendons around the shoulder. Dislocations are typically very painful until they are corrected or reduced. This is typically performed by a physician.
- Fracture at the Shoulder – A fracture in a bone around the shoulder is also usually due to trauma. Fractures can be painful and limit functional activity tolerance. Fractures typically require immobilization to allow healing but occasionally require a surgical repair for severe fractures.
Why Does my Shoulder Hurt at Work?
Image of a worker with shoulder pain
The vast majority of the workforce sits at a computer desk all day. Sitting at a desk typically causes postural issues which can cause the shoulders to round forward. Slumping in a chair while looking at a computer screen can change the position of the shoulder. When the shoulder blades round forward, It changes the way the shoulder sits in the socket of the joint. This can cause excessive stress on the rotator cuff, not to mention the neck and upper back.
Can Other Body Parts Cause Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can be a sign of other issues in the body. Referred pain can occur in the shoulder. Pain in the shoulder may be referred from:
- Lungs
- Heart
- Gallbladder
- Pancreas
- Ovaries
Referred shoulder pain typically does not change with shoulder movement. Some notice increased shoulder pain after eating when gallstones are present. If you notice shoulder pain that does not change with movement, it is important to see your physician to rule out medical complications.
Anatomy of the Shoulder
Should I See an Orthopedic Physician for My Shoulder Pain?
If your shoulder hurts, there are many things in your life which become difficult. Reaching for items, lifting, typing, you name it.. it hurts. An ache or pain in the shoulder every once in a while is pretty typical but if the pain is constant or consistent it can be a sign of a more serious problem. Waiting to see a doctor or go to therapy can lead to complications that make recovery take even longer. An orthopedic physician will do a thorough evaluation and provide you an individual treatment plan. Here is what your MD may do:
- A complete medical history
- Physical Exam including manual testing of your shoulder
- Special tests or x-ray
- They may order other diagnostic tests like an MRI
- Provide medications
- Modification of activities and RICE Technique
- They may order physical or occupational therapy
What do I do if I Hurt my Shoulder?
Also if you have recently had a shoulder surgery watch our video on How to Properly Put on an UltraSling 4 or Dressing the Upper Body After an Injury or Surgery
If you injure your shoulder, early treatment is important. The shoulder tends to become stiff very quickly and can develop functional limitations if the injury is not treated properly early. That’s why the Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute offers ASAP Fracture and Injury Services. This allows patients with injuries to be seen quickly without a trip to the Emergency Room. (Severe Injuries and trauma should still go to the Emergency Department.
Related Articles:
- 5 Shoulder Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
- Shoulder Pain When Playing Golf
- What Type Of Joint Is The Shoulder?
JOI offers World-Class physicians and surgeons to address injuries. We also offer the top therapists in 12 convenient locations to help you return to your normal daily life.
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.
You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.
To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
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