Shoulder pain can be caused by:
- Rotator cuff tears (partial or full thickness)
- Various types of arthritis (bone on bone)
- Biceps tendinosis, avulsion, or dislocation
- Labral tears or fraying
- Instability
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Acromioclavicular arthritis (arthritis where the clavicle meets the shoulder)
- Acromioclavicular joint instability
- Fracture
- Infection
- Neck problems
- Tumor
- Scapulothoracic problems (bursa irritation, scapular winging)
Common symptoms of shoulder pain and discomfort include:
- Pain with movement of the shoulder
- Inability to lift the shoulder overhead
- Pain on the side or front of the shoulder
- Night pain, especially if trying to lie on that side
- Pain while trying to put on a coat or shirt
- Pain while trying to reach behind to scratch ones back
- Pain when trying to throw a ball overhand style
