Differential Diagnosis for Left Shoulder Pain with Difficulty Putting on Bra and Anterior Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as putting on a bra. The anterior pain and limited mobility are consistent with frozen shoulder.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder, especially with movements that involve lifting the arm, such as putting on a bra.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae in the shoulder can cause pain and limited mobility, especially with anterior pain.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet can cause pain and numbness in the shoulder and arm, which may be exacerbated by certain movements.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less common, referred pain from a pulmonary embolism can manifest as shoulder pain, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate if missed.
- Myocardial Infarction: Referred pain from a heart attack can sometimes be felt in the shoulder, making it essential to rule out cardiac causes, especially in patients with risk factors.
- Pancoast Tumor: A rare type of lung cancer that can cause shoulder pain due to invasion of the brachial plexus, highlighting the importance of a thorough diagnostic workup.
- Rare diagnoses
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that can cause widespread muscle pain, including shoulder pain, although it typically presents with more systemic symptoms.
- Sickle Cell Crisis: In patients with sickle cell disease, a crisis can cause severe pain, including shoulder pain, due to vaso-occlusive episodes.
- Osteonecrosis of the Humeral Head: A rare condition where the blood supply to the humeral head is disrupted, leading to necrosis and potentially causing shoulder pain.