Differential Diagnosis for Limited Shoulder Abduction ROM and Pain after Sleeping on It
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is characterized by limited range of motion and pain in the shoulder, often exacerbated by sleeping on the affected side. The pain and stiffness can lead to reduced mobility, fitting the symptoms described.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff can cause pain and limited mobility, especially after sleeping on the shoulder, which can irritate the tendons further.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae in the shoulder can cause pain and limit movement, particularly if the bursae are irritated by sleeping on the shoulder.
- Rotator Cuff Strain: A strain in the muscles or tendons of the rotator cuff can lead to pain and limited range of motion, especially after activities that aggravate the condition, like sleeping on the affected side.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic Arthritis: Although less common, septic arthritis of the shoulder can present with pain and limited mobility. It's a medical emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Fracture: A fracture in the shoulder region, such as a proximal humerus fracture, could cause pain and limited range of motion, especially if the fracture occurred recently or was previously undiagnosed.
- Brachial Plexus Injury: An injury to the brachial plexus can cause pain, numbness, and limited mobility in the shoulder and arm. It's crucial to identify and treat promptly to avoid long-term damage.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Osteonecrosis of the Humeral Head: A condition where the blood supply to the humeral head is interrupted, leading to bone death. It can cause shoulder pain and limited mobility but is less common than other diagnoses.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Although more systemic, rheumatoid arthritis can initially present with localized symptoms such as shoulder pain and limited range of motion, making it a rare but possible diagnosis for these specific symptoms.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: This condition causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, and can limit range of motion. It's more common in older adults and can be associated with giant cell arteritis, making prompt diagnosis important.