Shoulder Problems

Although the shoulder is the most movable joint in the body, it is also an unstable joint because of its range-of-motion. Because the ball of the upper arm is larger than the socket of the shoulder, it is susceptible to injury and great amount of pain. The shoulder joint must also be supported by soft tissues - muscles, tendons, and ligaments - which are also subject to injury, overuse, and under use. Degenerative conditions and other diseases in the body may also contribute to shoulder problems and pain.

What are the different types of shoulder problems?

The shoulder is made up of several layers, including bones, joints, ligaments, acromion, tendons, muscles, bursa and rotator cuff. Shoulder pain may be localized in a specific area or may spread to areas around the shoulder or down the arm. Some of the most common include:

• Shoulder dislocation
• Shoulder separation
• Bursitis
• Impingement Syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Rotator cuff tear
• Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

Choose a shoulder physician specialist

Whether you are suffering from a sports injury or have chronic shoulder pain, the first step is to see an orthopedic physician. Your primary care physician or provider may recommend one, or you can choose one from our Find a Doctor tool.