Shoulder Pain Symptoms
Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
Shoulder pain can be a result of injury or disease of the shoulder joint. Injury can affect any of the ligaments, bursae, or tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. Injury can also affect the ligaments, cartilage, menisci (plural for meniscus), and bones of the joint. The design of the shoulder joint is such that it sacrifices stability for mobility. As an extremely mobile joint that plays a central role in the action of a major extremity, the shoulder is at risk for injury.
Pain can also occur in the shoulder from diseases or conditions that involve the shoulder joint, the soft tissues and bones surrounding the shoulder, or the nerves that supply sensation to the shoulder area.
Health concern on your mind? Visit the Symptom Checker.
REFERENCE:
Fauci, Anthony S., et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2008.
Causes of Shoulder Pain
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- Shoulder Dislocation At A Glance
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Shoulder Bursitis Shoulder bursitis is inflammation of the shoulder bursa. Bursitis may be caused by injury, infection, or a rheumatic condition....learn more »In This ArticleShoulder Bursitis Article- What is shoulder bursitis?
- How does a bursa become inflamed?
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- How is shoulder bursitis treated?
- What is the prognosis (outlook) for shoulder bursitis?
- Can shoulder bursitis be prevented?
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Sprains and Strains An injury to a ligament is called a sprain, and an injury to muscle or tendon is called a strain. Sprains and strains may be...learn more »In This ArticleSprains and Strains Article- Muscle sprains and strains facts
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Other Causes of Shoulder Pain
- Bone Tumor (rare)
- Brachial Plexus Injury
- Cartilage Tear (usually Labrum Tear)
- Irritation Under Diaphragm
Examples of Medications for Shoulder Pain
- acetaminophen, Tylenol and Others
- acetylsalicylic acid, Aspirin, Ecotrin
- celecoxib, Celebrex
- ibuprofen, Advil, Children's Advil/Motrin, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin, PediaCare Fever, etc.
- naproxen, Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn, Aleve
- Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- OTC Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers
- valdecoxib, Bextra
Symptoms & Signs A-Z List
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