Shoulder Pain is also one of the most well-known and common health issues associated with sports and performance. It can be caused by a variety of activities, but the most prominent include throwing (baseballs, footballs, etc), chronic overuse of the shoulder muscles, and trauma.

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis:

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis is caused by inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons within the shoulder joint. It is often the result of overuse of the shoulder and is seen primarily in athletes who throw frequently and repeatedly.

Rotator Cuff Strain:

The Rotator Cuff refers to four tendons found in the shoulder that attach four separate shoulder muscles to the upper arm bone. This particular strain occurs most often in those who repeat overhead motions or forceful pulling motions. It is very common in athletes, especially those who play baseball (often pitchers), football, weightlifting, rugby, volleyball, boxing, swimming, tennis, and bowling.

Adhesive Capsulitis:

Adhesive Capsulitis, also sometimes called Frozen Shoulder, causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder. In Adhesive Capsulitis, the area around the shoulder joint gradually thickens and contracts making it very difficult to move the shoulder over time. The causes are not well understood. The majority of patients improve with conservative treatments including physical therapy.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome:

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is the most common cause of shoulder pain. It occurs when there is compression of the tendons or bursa between the bones of the shoulder causing inflammation that can lead to tearing of the rotator cuff. The result is pain, loss in motion, and weakness of the shoulder area which affects daily activities including reaching overhead and dressing. Many patient are able to gain full use of the shoulder through conservative treatments and rehabilitation.

Biceps Tendonitis:

Biceps Tendonitis occurs when there is an irritation or inflammation in the upper biceps tendon; where the upper end of the biceps muscle connects to the shoulder bones. This condition results in pain and possibly weakness rooted in the front of the shoulder. Non-invasive treatments are often very successful in restoring the area to full health.

Glenoid Labrum Tear:

This condition can be difficult to diagnose as the pain associated with it is often not localized. The cause of this condition is injury to the glenoid labrum due to repetitive overhead throwing, catching or lifting heavy objects below shoulder level, or trauma.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is actually a series of various disorders that occur when nerves or blood vessels in the space between the collarbone and the first rib (which is the thoracic outlet) become compressed. This results in shoulder or neck pain and possible numbness in the fingers. This condition is often caused by trauma such as those seen in auto accidents, sports, or job related accidents.