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Shoulder Pain

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

Rotator cuff tendinitis occurs when the tendons in the rotator cuff become inflamed due to overuse, injury, or degeneration. These tendons, crucial for shoulder movement and stability, can become irritated, leading to pain, weakness, and restricted range of motion. Rotator cuff tendinitis often manifests as a dull ache in the shoulder, worsened by arm movements.

Common Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tendinitis:

  • Persistent, dull ache in the shoulder
  • Pain that may radiate down the arm, affecting the upper arm or even the neck
  • Weakness in the affected shoulder, making it challenging to lift or carry objects
  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint, with difficulty reaching overhead
  • Pain exacerbated by specific arm movements, such as reaching or lifting
  • Discomfort that intensifies at night, particularly when lying on the affected side

Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative condition that results from the gradual breakdown of the joint’s cartilage lining, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It may develop over time due to age-related wear and tear (osteoarthritis), result from autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or arise after previous shoulder injuries or surgeries (post-traumatic arthritis). Symptoms include chronic shoulder pain, joint stiffness, grinding or clicking sensations, and a reduced range of motion—all of which can impact daily function and quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis:

• Persistent, aching shoulder pain, typically deep within the joint
• Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to lift the arm or perform overhead activities
• Stiffness and discomfort in the shoulder, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest
• Grating or grinding sensation (crepitus) when moving the shoulder
• Weakness in the affected shoulder due to pain and limited mobility
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side due to nighttime discomfort

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become compressed in the narrow space beneath the acromion (a bony projection of the shoulder blade). This often results from repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, muscle imbalances, or anatomical variations in shoulder structure.

Over time, this impingement can cause inflammation, pain with movement, reduced range of motion, and difficulty with daily activities. It’s a common source of shoulder pain, especially in active individuals and those with jobs or hobbies that involve frequent overhead motion.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome:

• Gradual onset of shoulder pain, often felt on the front or side of the shoulder
• Pain worsens when lifting or reaching overhead
• Weakness in the affected shoulder, particularly when attempting to lift or carry objects
• Limited range of motion, especially when raising the arm or rotating it outward
• Pain may radiate down the arm, causing discomfort in the upper arm or neck
• Nighttime pain or discomfort, particularly when lying on the affected side

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, the first step is a thorough evaluation at Westlake Sports Medicine. We begin by assessing your symptoms, range of motion, and, when necessary, ordering advanced imaging to identify the root cause of your discomfort.

Depending on your diagnosis and goals, your personalized treatment plan may include:

  • Regenerative therapies such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or exosome injections to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing
  • Cortisone injections for short-term relief during acute flare-ups
  • Conservative treatment strategies including targeted physical therapy, postural correction, and anti-inflammatory lifestyle changes

When appropriate, we may coordinate with trusted orthopedic surgeons to explore arthroscopic procedures—reserved only for cases where conservative care has been exhausted.

Other Possible Causes of Shoulder Pain:

  • Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
  • Shoulder tendinitis
  • Shoulder bursitis
  • Shoulder fractures or dislocations
  • Nerve compression (brachial plexus injury)
  • Referred pain from the neck or spine

Shoulder Pain FAQs

Yes, shoulder pain can often be treated without surgery. Non-surgical treatments include physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle modifications. These methods aim to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and strengthen the shoulder muscles.
Shoulder pain is diagnosed through physical examination, patient history, and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound. These diagnostic tools help identify the cause of the pain, whether it’s inflammation, injury, or degenerative conditions, and guide the appropriate treatment plan.
Several lifestyle factors can contribute to shoulder pain, including poor posture, lack of exercise, repetitive overhead activities, and carrying heavy bags. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles and occupations that involve prolonged sitting can also lead to muscle imbalances and shoulder discomfort.
Yes, shoulder pain is more common in athletes due to repetitive movements and strain on the shoulder joint. Sports like baseball, tennis, and swimming, which require frequent overhead motions, can increase the risk of shoulder injuries, leading to pain and discomfort.
Yes, poor posture can contribute to shoulder pain. Slouching or hunching forward can strain the shoulder muscles and joints, leading to discomfort and pain. Maintaining good posture helps distribute weight evenly and reduces the risk of developing shoulder issues.
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