Differential Diagnoses for Osteoarthritis Induced Pain of Left Shoulder
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition often presents with shoulder pain and limited range of motion, similar to osteoarthritis. It is a common comorbidity with osteoarthritis and can be a significant contributor to pain and disability in patients with shoulder osteoarthritis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: Inflammation or degeneration of the rotator cuff tendons can cause shoulder pain and is often seen in conjunction with osteoarthritis.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae in the shoulder can cause pain and is commonly associated with osteoarthritis and rotator cuff disorders.
- Referred Pain from the Cervical Spine: Cervical spine disorders, such as herniated discs or cervical spondylosis, can refer pain to the shoulder region, mimicking osteoarthritis-induced pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Fracture: A fracture of the humerus, scapula, or clavicle can cause severe shoulder pain and must be ruled out, especially in patients with a history of trauma or osteoporosis.
- Infection (Septic Arthritis): Infection within the shoulder joint can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility, and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Tumor: Both benign and malignant tumors can occur in the shoulder region and cause pain, making it essential to consider this possibility, especially in patients with unexplained or persistent pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: This inflammatory condition can cause shoulder pain and stiffness, especially in older adults, and is often associated with elevated inflammatory markers.
- Avascular Necrosis of the Humeral Head: This condition, often related to trauma, steroid use, or other factors, can cause shoulder pain due to the death of bone tissue in the humeral head.
- Brachial Plexus Neuropathy: Damage to the nerves of the brachial plexus can cause shoulder pain, numbness, and weakness, and is a rare but important consideration in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pain.