Shoulder Pain

Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your shoulder pain are

• tendonitis
• bursitis
• muscle strain.

Frozen shoulder or a torn tendon (rotator cuff tear) are also possible as complications of these other conditions. Frozen shoulder (a condition in which motion in the shoulder is severely limited in all directions), may complicate any of these conditions if pain lasts long enough and if you restrict your motion as a response.  A crystal-induced arthritis (such as gout or pseudogout) or even an infection are also possible, though less likely.

Over-the-counter pain medicines, rest and ice may be helpful, but if symptoms persist, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.

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Online Medical Reviewer: LeWine, Howard MD Date Last Reviewed: 5/4/2006 Date Last Modified: 3/30/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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