Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: July 29, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Weakness and Pain in Both Shoulders with Intermittent Numbness in Left

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tear: This condition is a common cause of shoulder pain and weakness, especially in individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities or have experienced trauma to the shoulder. The presence of pain in both shoulders suggests a possible overuse or degenerative condition.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Cervical Spondylosis: This condition involves wear and tear on the discs in the neck, which can cause pain and numbness in the shoulders and arms due to compression of the nerves. The intermittent numbness in the left shoulder could be indicative of nerve root compression.
  • Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): Characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, adhesive capsulitis can lead to weakness and limited mobility. It often affects one shoulder but can occur in both.
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition involves compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib). It can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the shoulders and arms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Multiple Myeloma or Other Cancers: Although less common, cancers such as multiple myeloma can cause bone pain, including in the shoulders, and should not be overlooked, especially in older adults or those with risk factors.
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): This inflammatory condition causes muscle pain and stiffness, typically in the shoulders and hips. It's essential to diagnose PMR because it can be associated with giant cell arteritis, a condition that can lead to blindness if not treated promptly.
  • Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): While less likely to present with isolated shoulder symptoms, a stroke or TIA can cause sudden weakness or numbness. Given the potential for severe consequences, these conditions must be considered, especially if there are accompanying neurological symptoms.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, causing loss of muscle control. ALS is rare but should be considered in cases of progressive muscle weakness without a clear cause.
  • Brachial Plexitis (Neuralgic Amyotrophy): An inflammatory condition that affects the nerves of the brachial plexus, causing severe pain and weakness in the shoulders and arms. It is relatively rare and can be idiopathic or associated with other conditions.
  • Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome: A rare condition associated with the ingestion of contaminated L-tryptophan supplements, characterized by muscle pain, weakness, and elevated eosinophil counts. Given its rarity and the specific context required for diagnosis, it is less likely but should be considered in the appropriate clinical setting.

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.