Shoulder pain is common, particularly among athletes and active adults. While the rotator cuff is one potential source of shoulder pain, persistent symptoms can have many different causes.
Understanding what is causing the pain is an important first step toward determining appropriate treatment options.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
The shoulder is a complex joint involving bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other structures. Pain may originate from several different areas.
Potential causes include:
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Labral injuries
- Shoulder instability
- Biceps tendon conditions
- Impingement
- Arthritis
- AC joint conditions
- Overuse injuries
- Traumatic injuries
Because different shoulder conditions can produce similar symptoms, persistent pain should be properly evaluated rather than diagnosed based on symptoms alone.
How Do I Know If I Tore My Rotator Cuff?
A rotator cuff tear may cause pain, weakness, difficulty lifting the arm, discomfort with overhead activity, or pain at night.
Some patients experience symptoms after an injury, while others develop them gradually.
A physical examination and, when appropriate, imaging can help determine whether the rotator cuff is involved and characterize the injury.
Will a Rotator Cuff Tear Heal Without Surgery?
Not every rotator cuff tear requires surgery.
Treatment depends on factors such as the type and extent of the tear, symptoms, functional limitations, age, general health, activity level, and individual goals.
Nonsurgical treatment may include activity modification, physical therapy, medications, or other appropriate interventions. Surgery may be considered in certain patients based on the nature of the injury, symptoms, functional limitations, response to nonsurgical treatment, and individual goals.
What Is Shoulder Instability?
Shoulder instability occurs when the structures that normally help keep the shoulder joint stable do not adequately maintain the joint in position.
Patients may experience a complete dislocation, partial dislocation, or a recurring sensation that the shoulder is slipping or giving way.
Instability can occur after an injury or develop over time, including in athletes who repeatedly place the shoulder in demanding positions.
What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique in which a small camera and specialized instruments are introduced through small incisions around the shoulder.
Depending on the diagnosis, arthroscopy may be used to evaluate or treat certain conditions involving structures such as the rotator cuff, labrum, ligaments, cartilage, or other tissues within and around the shoulder.
Arthroscopy is a surgical technique, and whether it is appropriate depends on the individual diagnosis and clinical circumstances.
When Should Shoulder Pain Be Evaluated?
Consider an orthopedic evaluation when shoulder pain:
- Persists despite rest or activity modification
- Causes noticeable weakness
- Interferes with sleep
- Limits work, exercise, sports, or everyday activities
- Follows a significant injury
- Is associated with instability or repeated dislocations
- Continues to worsen
Determining the source of the symptoms can help guide appropriate treatment.
Take the Next Step
If persistent shoulder pain is limiting your activity, an orthopedic sports medicine evaluation can help identify potential causes and determine appropriate treatment options.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Michael Campbell
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual conditions, treatment options, risks, benefits, and outcomes vary. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition, symptoms, or treatment. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of information you have read on this website.
This content is not intended to establish a physician-patient relationship with Michael P. Campbell, MD, his practice, or any affiliated healthcare organization. Treatment recommendations can only be made following an appropriate evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.