Shoulder Pain
Soft tissue abnormalities, such as inflammation of tendons, ligaments and muscles, are the most common cause of shoulder pain. Inflammation in soft tissues around a joint is often referred to as "periarthritis." Pain can strike without warning, especially at night and when raising the shoulder.
Tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon (inflammation of the tendon) is the most common cause of periarthritis in the shoulder joint. Repeated use of the shoulder, such as during racquet sports, can cause this tendon to rub against the acromion process, a part of the shoulder blade.
Acute trauma (sudden and severe pain after injury) may be the sign of a tear in the rotator cuff. However, up to 30% of people over age 50 will experience a sudden tear of the supraspinatus tendon without being able to recall a significant trauma. Rarely infection from local trauma or infection brought by blood from other organ systems is a cause of soft tissue shoulder pain.
Conditions affecting the bone or joint, such as arthritis or tumor, can also cause shoulder pain. When true arthritis of the shoulder is present, range of motion in the shoulder is usually reduced and movement in all planes is generally painful.
Shoulder pain can also be caused by pain from injury in other joints of the body which is "referred" to the shoulder. Pain in the upper back or neck, tennis or golf elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome may be felt in the shoulder.
Content Courtesy : www.cchs.net
^{Note : Information herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any course of supplementation or treatment.}