Differential Diagnosis for Clicking and Catching Sensation with Right Shoulder
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is characterized by a gradual loss of active and passive shoulder motion, often accompanied by pain and a catching sensation. The inability to lift the arm higher than the shoulder level is a common symptom. Although the X-ray is normal, adhesive capsulitis is a clinical diagnosis based on history and physical examination.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Subacromial 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, weakness, and limited mobility. The clicking and catching sensation can be due to the mechanical impingement of the tendons.
- Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy or Tear: Inflammation or tears of the rotator cuff tendons can cause pain, weakness, and mechanical symptoms such as clicking or catching, especially when lifting the arm.
- Labral Tear: A tear in the labrum, the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint, can cause a catching or clicking sensation, especially with certain movements.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Axillary Artery Aneurysm or Thrombosis: Although rare, an aneurysm or thrombosis of the axillary artery can cause shoulder pain and limited mobility due to decreased blood flow. This condition requires urgent medical attention to prevent serious complications.
- Brachial Plexus Injury: Trauma to the brachial plexus can result in pain, weakness, and limited mobility of the shoulder and arm. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage.
- Rare diagnoses
- Osteochondroma or Other Benign Tumors: Rarely, a benign tumor such as an osteochondroma can cause mechanical symptoms like clicking or catching due to its location and size.
- Inflammatory Arthritis (e.g., Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis): Although less common, inflammatory arthritis can affect the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The presence of systemic symptoms or other joint involvement would support this diagnosis.