Shoulder Pain?

Here’s what may be causing it – and what you can do about it.

Rotator Cuff Tear

A tear in the tendons or muscles that stabilize the shoulder, causing pain, weakness and/or interference with daily activities; a tear may be due to repetitive use, uncontrolled inflammation, traumatic injury or age-related degeneration. Treatment options: cold or heat, over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, possibly surgery.

Tendinitis and Bursitis

Inflammation of the tendons or the bursae (small fluidfilled sacs that cushion the joint), which causes pain when the arm is lifted; may result from repetitive use, overhead work, an inflammatory process or a pinched rotator cuff. Treatment options: rest, ice, OTC or prescription anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, corticosteroid injection.