Differential Diagnosis for Left Shoulder Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's age, occupation as a carpenter (which involves repetitive overhead activities), and symptoms of pain upon raising the arm. The presence of mild tenderness over the lateral shoulder also supports this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Rotator Cuff Strain: Similar to tendinitis, a strain could result from the repetitive use and overstretching of the rotator cuff muscles, leading to pain and mild tenderness.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around the shoulder joint could cause pain, especially with movement, and might present with mild tenderness.
- Labral Tear: A tear in the labrum, the cartilage surrounding the socket of the shoulder joint, could cause pain, especially with certain movements, although it might not always present with significant tenderness or limited range of motion.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Although the patient has no reported neck pain or neurological symptoms, it's crucial to consider cervical radiculopathy, as it can refer pain to the shoulder area. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment and potential worsening of neurological symptoms.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: 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). It could cause shoulder pain and might be critical to diagnose to prevent long-term nerve damage.
- Infection or Septic Arthritis: Although less likely given the mild presentation, any infection within the shoulder joint is a medical emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition involves inflammation and sc sc scarring of the tissues surrounding the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness. However, it typically presents with a more significant limitation in range of motion than described.
- Osteonecrosis of the Humarmal Head: A condition where the blood supply to the head of the humerus is interrupted, leading to bone decay. This would be an unusual presentation without a history of trauma or known risk factors like long-term steroid use.
- Tumor: Both benign and malignant tumors can cause shoulder pain. Although extremely rare, they must be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if the pain is persistent and unexplained by other causes.