Guide To The Causes Of Shoulder Pain

The shoulder has the largest and most versatile range of motion of any joint in the body. Multiple components work together to ensure the shoulders retain their usual range of motion and are capable of doing their jobs. When there is an issue with the shoulder, it can range from mild discomfort to a debilitating injury that interferes with an individual's day-to-day life. An injured shoulder cannot move with the same freedom. Many individuals do not realize how much they move their shoulders until the movement becomes restricted. 

Individuals have many options for shoulder pain treatment. Resting their affected shoulder is quite common, as is taking shoulder pain medication. Many individuals experience shoulder pain relief with over-the-counter options, including anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. Home remedies for shoulder pain include gentle exercises as well as cool compresses on the shoulder. However, the most effective treatment for shoulder pain varies based on the underlying cause. Thus, individuals should determine what the cause of their shoulder pain is first.

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

The most common cause of moderate to serious shoulder pain is a condition called rotator cuff tendinitis. There are some cases where the pain is mild. However, when the discomfort reaches levels high enough for a patient to seek out the advice of a doctor, the underlying condition is most often rotator cuff tendinitis. This condition affects the muscles and tendons that move the shoulder joint. Tendinitis occurs when the tendons in the body have become irritated or inflamed. 

Rather than appearing all at once, the symptoms tend to come on gradually and get worse with time. Sometimes the condition results from keeping the shoulder in a single position without moving it, sleeping on the same shoulder in the same position every night, or repeatedly lifting the arm above the head when engaging in physical activity. It is common for athletes to develop rotator cuff tendinitis, especially if they play tennis, pitch in baseball, or swim.