Differential Diagnosis for Shoulder Pain that Cannot Lift
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tear: This is the most common cause of shoulder pain and limited mobility, especially in individuals who perform repetitive overhead activities or have experienced trauma to the shoulder. The rotator cuff muscles and tendons play a crucial role in shoulder movement, and their injury can significantly impair lifting ability.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): Characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, adhesive capsulitis can severely limit the range of motion, making it difficult to lift. It often occurs after a period of immobility or in association with other medical conditions like diabetes.
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: This condition occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become irritated or inflamed as they pass under the acromion, leading to pain and difficulty lifting the arm.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, can cause pain and limit movement, especially if the subacromial or subdeltoid bursae are affected.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Fracture (e.g., Proximal Humerus Fracture): Although less common, a fracture in the shoulder region can cause severe pain and inability to lift. Missing this diagnosis could lead to improper healing and long-term disability.
- Axillary Nerve Injury: Damage to the axillary nerve can result in weakness of the deltoid muscle and sensory loss over the shoulder, significantly affecting lifting ability. Prompt recognition is crucial for optimal recovery.
- Infection (e.g., Septic Arthritis or Osteomyelitis): Infections in the shoulder joint or bone can cause severe pain, limited mobility, and systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term damage.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tumors (Benign or Malignant): Although rare, tumors in the shoulder region can cause pain and limited mobility. Examples include osteochondromas, chondrosarcomas, or metastatic lesions.
- Brachial Plexus Injury: Damage to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that conduct signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder and arm, can lead to significant weakness, pain, and limited mobility in the shoulder and arm.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that affects the muscles, polymyalgia rheumatica can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulders, hips, and neck, making it difficult to lift.