Persistent shoulder pain can dramatically impact your quality of life, making it difficult to reach overhead or brush your hair. Understanding the common causes of shoulder pain is the first step toward effective treatment and recovery. Whether it’s due to an injury, overuse, or an underlying condition, pinpointing the cause can lead to a faster and more efficient healing process.
The shoulder is a complex joint composed of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to allow a wide range of movements. The three bones of the shoulder are the arm bone, the shoulder blade, and the collar bone. The shoulder joint is where the head of the humerus fits into a shallow socket in the shoulder blade. This ball-and-socket structure enables the shoulder to move in multiple directions–but also makes it vulnerable to injuries and instability.
Supporting and stabilizing the shoulder joint is a group of muscles and tendons called the rotator cuff, which surrounds the shoulder joint and helps keep the head of the arm bone firmly in place. Additionally, the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs in the joint, reduce friction between the bones and tendons.
When any of these components are damaged or inflamed, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. At For Health’s Sake, we can help you understand why your shoulder hurts so you can find the relief you need.
Keep reading to learn more about common causes of shoulder pain and what our Toronto-based team of physiotherapists and chiropractors can do to help.
What Are Some Common Causes of Shoulder Pain?
Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Injuries to the rotator cuff are one of the most frequent causes of shoulder pain in our clinic. These injuries can result from repetitive movements, lifting heavy objects, or acute injuries (like a fall). Symptoms include a dull ache deep in the shoulder, difficulty sleeping on the affected side, and trouble reaching behind your back.
Shoulder impingement
- Shoulder impingement is another frequent issue, one that can develop due to rotator cuff issues. It occurs when the shoulder blade rubs against the rotator cuff tendons and bursa, causing irritation and inflammation. This condition often results in pain when lifting the arm, especially overhead, and weakness in the shoulder.
Frozen Shoulder
- Frozen shoulder develops in stages: first, you’ll experience severe pain and gradually increasing stiffness. Next, you’ll experience a highly restricted range of motion with less pain. Finally, you’ll begin to regain your mobility. Each stage can last several months, but physiotherapy can facilitate your recovery.
Shoulder Osteoarthritis
- While multiple types of arthritis can affect the shoulder, osteoarthritis is the most common. It occurs when the cartilage cushioning the bones wears down over time, leading to pain, especially during movement, and reduced range of motion.
Shoulder Bursitis
- Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, which causes pain and swelling. It often develops from repetitive movements or prolonged pressure on the shoulder.
Find Shoulder Pain Relief at For Health’s Sake!
Understanding the causes of shoulder pain is the first step to getting the care you need. Our physiotherapists and chiropractors will collaborate to create a personalized treatment plan and find a solution that works for you.
These treatment plans may include manual therapy techniques to improve joint function, exercises to strengthen and stretch the shoulder, and strategies to prevent future injuries. These methods address pain, enhance shoulder function, and help you live a healthy, active lifestyle.
If shoulder pain is holding you back, call For Health’s Sake to schedule your initial appointment!