Shoulder pain is a health problem that makes daily living activities difficult, restricts arm movement, and often radiates to different areas. Due to the complex structure of the shoulder joint, the origin of pain can stem from many factors, from muscles and tendons to joint structures and nerves. Below, the causes of shoulder pain are addressed under the headings that patients wonder about most.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
Muscle and tendon strains
Heavy lifting, sudden movements, or repetitive use can cause strain in the shoulder muscles and tendons. This condition manifests as pain, especially when lifting the arm upward.
Shoulder joint-related problems
Shoulder impingement syndrome, frozen shoulder, or joint osteoarthritis can restrict shoulder movements and cause pain. A catching sensation during movement is frequently observed.
Poor posture and postural abnormalities
Working at a desk for extended periods, postural habits that round the shoulders forward, and non-ergonomic working conditions are among the most common causes of shoulder pain.
Which Conditions Cause Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Developing as a result of tendon compression within the shoulder joint, this condition causes pain that increases especially when raising the arm overhead.
Frozen shoulder
Arising from the stiffening of the shoulder joint capsule, frozen shoulder is characterized by restricted range of motion and pain that persists even at rest.
Referred pain originating from the neck
Cervical disc herniation or nerve compression can cause pain radiating to the shoulder area. This type of pain may be accompanied by numbness and tingling.
When Is Shoulder Pain a Serious Problem?
Shoulder pain worsening at night
Shoulder pain that intensifies at night and wakes you from sleep may indicate a tendon tear or advanced joint problems.
Inability to lift the arm and loss of strength
If shoulder pain is accompanied by an inability to raise the arm or noticeable loss of strength, a thorough evaluation by a specialist is required.
Persistent pain lasting for a long time
Shoulder pain that persists for weeks despite home remedies may point to a chronic problem and requires treatment.
These resources prepared by İSOM aim to provide a reliable guide for individuals who wish to accurately understand the causes of shoulder pain, take the right steps early on, and seek specialist support when necessary. To obtain more information about shoulder and joint health, you can visit our home page, about us, contact, and blog pages, and follow our Instagram account for up-to-date and informative posts.