Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common issue that becomes more frequent with age. It can be acute or chronic and may result from injury, overuse, or degeneration of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or bones. Common shoulder conditions include:

  • Dislocation
  • Instability
  • Separation
  • Labral tear
  • Rotator cuff tear
  • Bursitis
  • Arthritis

Depending on the condition, patients may experience pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, loss of strength, and other debilitating symptoms.

Diagnosis of Shoulder Problems

Diagnosing shoulder issues typically begins with a review of symptoms and a physical exam. Additional tests may include:

  • X-rays
  • CT scans
  • MRI scans

A physician may also assess arm strength and range of motion through specific movements to identify the affected areas.

What is Bursitis?

Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions tendons, muscles, and bones at the joints. When inflamed, bursae can cause painful friction within the joint. Bursitis usually results from repetitive stress or sudden injury and presents with swelling, redness, and deep, aching pain. It most commonly affects the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.

What is a Rotator Cuff Injury?

The rotator cuff is a band of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow full range of motion. A rotator cuff tear can be partial or complete and often results from overuse, repetitive movements, or trauma. This condition is more common in individuals over 40, athletes, or those with jobs requiring repetitive arm lifting. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and limited shoulder movement.

What is a Labral Tear?

The labrum is a ring of cartilage in ball-and-socket joints like the shoulder that provides stability, cushioning, and full range of motion. A labral tear can occur due to injury or overuse, causing pain and a catching or locking sensation in the shoulder.

What is Shoulder Instability?

Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder frequently dislocates or partially slips out of the joint (subluxation). It often results from an injury or a naturally loose joint capsule. Patients may experience pain when lifting the arm and a persistent feeling that the shoulder is slipping out of place.

Treatment of Shoulder Problems

At Michigan Integrative Health, we take a different approach to shoulder care. Rather than simply treating symptoms, we focus on the root causes of chronic shoulder problems:

  • Inflammation
  • Joint instability
  • Tissue damage

Our treatments are drug-free and non-surgical. We offer:

  • Services to improve joint stability
  • Natural anti-inflammatory care
  • Regenerative therapies to repair and heal damaged tissues

During your consultation, exam, and assessment, we determine if you are a candidate for care and identify which services will benefit you. We only accept patients who can demonstrate increased motion, improved strength, or decreased pain during the initial visit. Our goal is to show you that we can help restore your shoulder function and reduce your pain.