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Differential Diagnosis for Right Shoulder Pain and Stiffness

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move. It is a common cause of shoulder pain and stiffness, especially in middle-aged individuals.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint can cause pain and stiffness, especially with movement.
  • Rotator Cuff Tear: A tear in the rotator cuff tendons can cause pain, weakness, and stiffness in the shoulder.
  • Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the shoulder joint can cause pain and stiffness, especially in older adults.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) surrounding the shoulder joint can cause pain and stiffness.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Septic Arthritis: A bacterial infection of the shoulder joint can cause severe pain, stiffness, and swelling, and requires prompt antibiotic treatment.
  • Fracture: A broken bone in the shoulder or arm can cause severe pain and stiffness, and may require surgical intervention.
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet can cause pain, numbness, and stiffness in the shoulder and arm.
  • Referred Pain from the Cervical Spine: Pain from the neck can be referred to the shoulder, and underlying conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis need to be ruled out.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that can cause joint pain and stiffness, including in the shoulder.
  • Tumors: Rarely, tumors such as osteosarcoma or metastatic cancer can cause shoulder pain and stiffness.
  • Infectious Diseases: Certain infections such as Lyme disease or tuberculosis can cause shoulder pain and stiffness, although these are rare causes.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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