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: September 10, 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 Intense Pain in Right Shoulder Joint and Under Clavicle

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is common in women, especially after the age of 50, and can cause intense pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint without any known injury. The pain can also radiate under the clavicle.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint can cause pain in the shoulder and under the clavicle, especially with movement.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints can cause pain and swelling in the shoulder area.
  • Referred Pain from the Cervical Spine: Cervical spine conditions such as herniated discs or osteoarthritis can refer pain to the shoulder and under the clavicle.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Although less common in women, myocardial infarction can present with atypical symptoms, including pain in the shoulder and under the clavicle, especially if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest discomfort.
  • Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot in the lungs can cause sudden onset of shoulder pain, especially if the clot is located in the upper lobes of the lungs.
  • Thoracic Aortic Dissection: A tear in the aorta can cause severe pain in the chest and shoulder area, which can radiate under the clavicle.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Pancoast Tumor: A rare type of lung cancer that can cause shoulder pain and weakness due to compression of the brachial plexus.
  • Osteonecrosis of the Humeral Head: A rare condition where the bone tissue in the shoulder joint dies due to lack of blood supply, causing severe pain and limited mobility.
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that can cause widespread muscle pain, including in the shoulder and under the clavicle, especially in older adults.

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.