We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are Common Causes of Shoulder Joint Pain?

By Eugene P.
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,310
Share

Shoulder joint pain can be common in some people. The shoulder is one of the most used areas of the body and has very little protection against moving it beyond the natural and safe range of motion. Common causes for shoulder pain include compression of the tendons under other bones, such as the scapula — also called the shoulder blade — and degenerative conditions such as arthritis. More serious problems, such as liver damage and angina, also can cause the body to perceive shoulder pain. Conditions such as neck problems, bad posture and torn parts of the bicep also can lead to shoulder joint pain.

One of the most common causes of shoulder joint pain results from moving the arm outside the safe range of motion. This can pull on muscles, ligaments and tendons and potentially tear them. This causes inflammation of the shoulder and swelling of the joint. This kind of shoulder pain can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication and a routine that does not strain the area.

Another problem that can cause shoulder joint pain is poor posture or strain on the neck muscles. Both of these problems can cause the muscles of the shoulder to work harder while trying to compensate for the muscles that are not being used properly. This can lead to inflammation of the shoulder joint that causes pain. Treatment involves exercises to improve posture and standard anti-inflammatory medications.

One cause of shoulder joint pain can be dislocation. This is where the actual bone in the arm, called the humerus, is physically forced out of its normal position in relation to the other bones. This leads to intense pain and a restriction in the movements of the shoulder. A dislocated shoulder joint can result from a sudden impact or prolonged strain. This condition needs to be treated by a medical professional who can push the bone back into correct alignment.

There also are diseases that can cause shoulder joint pain. As in any joint, arthritis can occur and corrode the protective tissue between the bones. This can cause chronic pain and inflammation of the area that can only possibly be cured with surgery. Heart problems such as angina also can, because of the location of the pain, be interpreted by the brain as shoulder joint pain.

One of the most common causes of shoulder joint pain is rotator cuff tendinitis. This is a condition in which tendon between the top of the humerus and the edge of the shoulder bone is pinched, causing it to swell. The greater the swelling, the more intense the pain. This can be treated with rest and over-the-counter pain medications but, in severe cases, might call for cortisone injections.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-common-causes-of-shoulder-joint-pain.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.