There are many causes associated with shoulder pain. Pain can arise from the shoulder joint to many of the surrounding ligaments, muscles or tendons. A typical injury which pain worsens with movement or activities is usually from the joint.

There are many conditions and diseases that could affect structures in your abdomen or chest which also can cause shoulder pain, such as gallbladder disease or heart disease. This is considered referred pain, due to the pain arising from another structure to your shoulder. Typically this type of pain doesn’t worsen with movement, such as joint pain.

Shoulder pain is a very common issue. When you experience pain there are many potential causes in this area due to the complex anatomy of the shoulder. Below you will find some possible shoulder pain causes:

Clavicle fracture: A clavicle (collarbone) fracture is the most common shoulder break. These fractures are typically from a result of a fall, sports injury or trauma accident. Children are particularly at high risk of this fracture due to your collarbone not completely hardening until the age of 20.

Scapula fracture: This fracture is rare, although possible. The scapula (shoulder blade) is a very sturdy bone and is located in a rather protected area, therefore it rarely breaks. A scapula fracture is usually the result of a high fall or car accident.

Proximal humerus fracture: This particular fracture is commonly seen more in elderly people. It is known to be one of the most common broken bones in patients over the age of 65. This fracture occurs when the ball of the ball-and-sock shoulder joint is broken.

Rotator cuff injury/tear: A rotator cuff injury or tear often occurs in people who repeatedly perform an overhead motion at their jobs or in sports. At times progression degeneration or wear and tear of the tendon tissue are also the cause. Without treatment, rotator cuff injuries can result in loss of moment or weakness.

Bursitis: Shoulder bursitis is the most common complaint of shoulder pain. When a bursa becomes inflamed it is usually due to injury, infection (not common in shoulder) or a rheumatic condition.

Dislocated shoulder: This injury occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the socket that's apart of yours shoulderblade. Due to the shoulder being the bodies most mobile joint, it makes it likely for dislocations. It is common for a shoulder dislocation to cause tingling or weakness and numbness near the injury.

Shoulder osteoarthritis: As you age, you are at risk of developing osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Although, even at a young age, an injury of the shoulder can also lead to osteoarthritis. Shoulder pain is the most common symptom of shoulder osteoarthritis.

Your physcican will usually first suggest rest, ice, heat or physical therapy to attempt to treat your pain in a conservative way. If it appears your shoulder pain is not subsiding from conservative treatments your surgeon might consider sharing surgical options.