Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

The shoulder has several joints that connect to muscles and tendons to allow significant mobility in the arm. Despite this, excessive or unusual activity increases the risk of developing shoulder pain. The discomfort may be constant, or only when the arm is moved. It could be a fleeting ailment or require diagnosis and treatment by a doctor. Pinpointing the cause of shoulder pain can be tricky, especially in the absence of injury. Each of the several conditions that cause pain in the shoulder presents unique symptoms.

1. Bursitis

Bursae are tiny, fluid-filled sacs that line joints and cushion the bones. Excessive movement can cause swelling, and inflammation of the bursa in a part of the shoulder called the rotator cuff. The pain usually goes away after a few weeks with rest, though it may flare on occasion.