Differential Diagnosis for Shoulder Pain
Single most likely diagnosis
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, which can cause a sensation of needing to "pop" due to the restricted movement and tension in the joint.
Other Likely diagnoses
- Subacromial Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa under the acromion can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder, potentially leading to a feeling of needing to "pop" the joint.
- Tendinitis (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tendinitis): Inflammation of the tendons around the shoulder joint can cause pain and stiffness, which might be perceived as the shoulder needing to "pop".
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: This condition, where the shoulder blade puts pressure on the underlying tissues when the arm is lifted, can cause pain and a sensation of needing to "pop" the shoulder.
Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Although less common, 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), which can cause shoulder pain and other symptoms.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that can cause widespread muscle pain, including shoulder pain, and has a significant association with giant cell arteritis, a condition that can lead to blindness if not treated promptly.
- Referred Pain from Cardiac or Pulmonary Issues: Sometimes, pain from the heart or lungs can be referred to the shoulder, making it crucial to consider cardiac issues like myocardial infarction or pulmonary issues like pneumothorax, especially in patients with risk factors.
Rare diagnoses
- Osteonecrosis of the Humeral Head: A rare condition where the blood supply to the humerus (upper arm bone) is interrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue, which can cause shoulder pain.
- Septic Arthritis of the Shoulder: A bacterial infection within the shoulder joint, which is rare but serious and requires prompt treatment to avoid permanent damage.
- Tumors (Benign or Malignant): Although very rare, tumors can cause shoulder pain and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if the pain is persistent and unexplained by other causes.