Differential Diagnosis for Shoulder Pain with Specific Movement Patterns
The following differential diagnosis is organized into categories to help guide the thought process.
Single most likely diagnosis
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common presentation of shoulder pain with specific movement patterns, such as pain when lifting the arm or rotating the shoulder. Rotator cuff tendinitis is a common condition that affects the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.
Other Likely diagnoses
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, which can be exacerbated by specific movement patterns. It is a common condition that can be caused by injury, surgery, or certain medical conditions.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, can cause shoulder pain with specific movement patterns. Bursitis is often caused by repetitive motion or direct trauma to the shoulder.
- Labral Tears: Tears in the labrum, which is the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint, can cause shoulder pain with specific movement patterns, such as throwing or lifting. Labral tears are often caused by injury or repetitive motion.
Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Septic Arthritis: This is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Septic arthritis is an infection in the joint that can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility. It is often caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus.
- Fracture: A fracture of the shoulder or surrounding bones can cause severe pain and limited mobility. It is essential to rule out a fracture, especially if there is a history of trauma.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition is characterized by compression of the nerves and blood vessels that pass through the thoracic outlet, which can cause shoulder pain, numbness, and tingling. Thoracic outlet syndrome can be caused by poor posture, injury, or certain medical conditions.
Rare diagnoses
- Osteonecrosis: This is a rare condition that occurs when the blood supply to the bone is disrupted, causing the bone to die. Osteonecrosis can cause shoulder pain and limited mobility.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and pain in the joints, including the shoulder. Rheumatoid arthritis is a rare condition that requires prompt medical attention.
- Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors can cause shoulder pain and limited mobility. Tumors are a rare cause of shoulder pain, but it is essential to rule them out, especially if there are other symptoms, such as weight loss or fatigue.