Shoulder Pain and Problems

What are shoulder problems?

The shoulder is several joints that combine with tendons and muscles to allow a wide range of motion to the arm. Most shoulder problems involve the soft tissues, muscles, ligaments, and tendons -- not the bones.

Types of shoulder problems:

Shoulder problems, most often, can be classified by the following categories:

• tendinitis
• bursitis
• injury/instability
• arthritis
• rare causes, such as tumors, infection, or nerve-related problems

What is tendinitis?
The cord that connects a muscle to bone or other tissue is called a tendon. Tendinitis results from a wearing process that takes place over a period of years. Generally, tendinitis is one of several types:

• acute tendinitis - usually caused by overuse

• chronic tendinitis - usually a result of degenerative disease or repetitive wear and tear due to age

• splitting and tearing of tendons - may result from an acute injury or degenerative disease

What is bursitis?
Bursas, fluid filled sacs located around the joints, ease friction caused by movement of the shoulder. Excessive use of the shoulder may cause inflammation and swelling of a bursa, a condition known as bursitis. Bursitis may occur in association with tendinitis.

Injury/instability of the shoulder:
When bones in one of the shoulder joints move or are forced out of normal position, the condition is called instability. It can result in dislocation of one of the joints in the shoulder.

Arthritis and the shoulder:
Shoulder pain can also result from arthritis, generally caused by wear and tear,which in turn causes inflammation of the joint, leading to swelling, pain, and stiffness.

When there has been an acute injury to the shoulder, or if the pain is intense, seek medical attention as soon as possible.