Shoulder pain is a very common complaint and can occur in various forms. The shoulder is the body’s most mobile joint, and problems can arise from overuse, injury or hypermobility.

Shoulder pain can be caused by a number of issues, but fall into four major categories: tendon inflammation, instability, arthritis or tears.

Pain symptoms may include inability to lift or carry objects; inability to raise or use the arm; pain that persists more than several days;  swelling, bruising or deformity of the joint.

An accurate diagnosis will determine the treatment appropriate to the specific cause of pain.

• Rest or reduction of activities that cause pain
• Over the counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy, depending on the cause of pain
• Surgery, if the underlying cause is severe, to repair the joint