Shoulder pain affects athletes in nearly every sport, but knowing the causes helps you recognize the right time to seek care. Pitchers, swimmers, and tennis players raise their arms overhead regularly, and that repetition wears on the joint. Since the shoulder moves in more directions than any other joint, it gives up some stability. Here are some major causes of shoulder pain:
Bursitis or Tendonitis
Bursitis affects the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac in the shoulder, and tendonitis affects the tendons. Both conditions involve inflammation from overuse and lead to shoulder pain. Since the bursa and tendons sit close to each other, they can appear together. Watch for these signs:
- Pain on the outside of the shoulder
- Tenderness when you press on the joint
- Pain that worsens with overhead movement
- Warmth or swelling
While these conditions improve with rest, they may return if you resume activity too soon. Ice, anti-inflammatory medicine, and gentle stretching help many athletes. Some cases need a steroid injection, and others need physical therapy. A provider may also recommend a short break from your sport.
Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that hold the upper arm in place. In many cases, athletes in throwing and overhead sports tear these tendons. Some tears happen suddenly during a fall, but others develop slowly from repeated strain.
A torn rotator cuff can cause a dull ache deep in the shoulder, and the pain typically worsens when you sleep on the affected side. Your arm may feel weak, which affects reaching overhead. Some people also hear a crackling sound with certain movements.
Small tears may respond to rest and physical therapy, but larger tears may need surgery. If you ignore the symptoms, a partial tear may grow into a full tear. An early exam shows a provider the extent of the damage. Imaging such as an MRI reveals the size of the tear.
Arthritis Issues
Arthritis wears down the smooth cartilage on the ends of your bones. While arthritis occurs with aging, athletes might develop it earlier. Years of impact stress the joint, and repetitive motion speeds up the damage. Football players and weightlifters face a higher risk.
When cartilage thins, bones rub together and cause stiffness and swelling. The pain may build slowly over months, or it may flare after a hard workout. Range of motion often shrinks over time. A provider uses a physical exam and X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs are small, bony growths on the edges of bones. They form near the shoulder joint, and they may rub against nearby tendons. When a spur pinches the rotator cuff, you may feel sharp pain with overhead motion. Other signs include the following:
- Stiffness in the shoulder
- Range of motion reduction
- Weakness when lifting objects
- Pain that wakes you at night
Get Treatment for Shoulder Pain
If shoulder pain lasts more than a few days, schedule an exam with a medical provider. A sports injury specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis, and you can book an appointment for an evaluation. Seek emergency care right away for a visible deformity or severe pain after a fall.
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