Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can stem from various issues, making it challenging to determine the exact cause. Three common sources of shoulder pain include shoulder bursitis, rotator cuff tears, and supraspinatus tendonitis. While they may present with similar symptoms, each condition affects different parts of the shoulder structure and may require different treatments. Here’s how to tell them apart.

 

1. Shoulder Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis is inflammation of the bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions the tendons and muscles around the shoulder joint. When the bursa becomes irritated, it swells, causing pain and discomfort.

• Symptoms: Dull, aching pain that’s often felt on the outside of the shoulder. Pain may worsen with movement, particularly when raising the arm overhead or lying on the affected shoulder. Swelling and tenderness around the shoulder are also common.

• Diagnosis: Physical exams focus on locating the pain and evaluating shoulder movement limitations. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI may show inflammation or fluid around the bursa.

 

2. Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. A rotator cuff tear happens when one of these tendons is damaged, often from overuse, trauma, or age-related degeneration. 

• Symptoms: Sharp, intense pain, especially when lifting or rotating the arm. Weakness in the shoulder may make it difficult to lift objects or perform simple tasks. Patients may feel a popping sensation during movement and often have trouble sleeping on the affected shoulder.

• Diagnosis: A physical examination will typically reveal weakness in the shoulder, especially in specific arm movements. Imaging tests, particularly MRI, are essential to confirm the tear’s location and severity.

 

3. Supraspinatus Tendonitis

Supraspinatus tendonitis is an inflammation of the supraspinatus tendon, one of the main tendons in the rotator cuff. This tendon passes through a narrow space and is prone to inflammation due to repetitive motion or overuse. 

• Symptoms: Pain in the upper shoulder area, particularly when lifting the arm sideways or overhead. The pain is often felt at the top and side of the shoulder and may worsen at night.

• Diagnosis: A doctor may use the “empty can” test, where the patient holds their arm out as if pouring out a can. Pain during this motion suggests supraspinatus tendonitis. Ultrasound or MRI can also help visualize inflammation in the tendon.

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Learn more about the Different Types of Shoulder Pain.

Learn how to identify Shoulder Tendonitis, Bursitis and Tendon Tears