5 Common Causes of Shoulder Pain – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor

5 Common Causes of Shoulder Pain – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor

Shoulder pain is a frequent complaint and can affect people of all ages.

The shoulder is a complex joint that allows a wide range of movement, making it prone to injury, inflammation, and wear over time. Shoulder pain may develop suddenly after an injury or gradually due to repetitive use or ageing.

This article outlines five common causes of shoulder pain, how to recognise them, when shoulder pain is serious, and when you should seek medical advice.

1. Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy or Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Overuse, ageing, or injury can cause irritation, inflammation, or tearing of these tendons.

Common symptoms

• Pain when lifting or reaching overhead
• Shoulder weakness
• Night pain, especially when lying on the affected side
• Pain that worsens with activity

When to worry

• Persistent pain lasting several weeks
• Increasing weakness in the arm
• Difficulty lifting or rotating the shoulder

When to see a doctor

• If shoulder pain does not improve with rest
• If pain interferes with sleep or daily tasks
• If there is sudden loss of strength after injury

Early treatment can help prevent further tendon damage.

2. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become pinched during shoulder movements. This is commonly linked to repetitive overhead activities.

Common symptoms

• Pain when raising the arm
• Pain at the front or side of the shoulder
• Discomfort when reaching behind the back
• Gradual onset of pain

When to worry

• Pain is worsening over time
• Reduced range of shoulder movement
• Pain persists despite activity modification

When to see a doctor

• If shoulder pain lasts longer than two weeks
• If movement becomes increasingly restricted
• If pain affects work or sport

Physiotherapy is often effective in managing impingement symptoms.

3. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful due to thickening and tightening of the joint capsule. It often develops gradually and may last months to years.

Common symptoms:

• Progressive shoulder stiffness
• Constant aching or dull pain
• Difficulty with everyday movements
• Pain that may worsen at night

When to worry

• Rapid loss of shoulder movement
• Pain that does not ease with rest
• Significant impact on daily activities

When to see a doctor

• If shoulder stiffness is worsening
• If pain and reduced movement persist
• If you have diabetes or thyroid disease (higher risk)

Early diagnosis can improve long-term outcomes.

4. Shoulder Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis occurs when a small fluid-filled sac (bursa) becomes inflamed. It often develops alongside rotator cuff problems or due to repetitive shoulder movements.

Common symptoms

• Localised shoulder pain
• Swelling or tenderness
• Pain when lifting the arm
• Discomfort at rest

When to worry

• Increasing swelling or redness
• Warmth around the shoulder
• Pain not improving with rest

When to see a doctor

• If pain persists for more than a week
• If shoulder movement becomes painful
• If signs of infection develop

Treatment may include rest, medication, or targeted therapy.

5. Shoulder Osteoarthritis (OA)

Shoulder osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage in the shoulder joint wears down, causing pain and stiffness. It is more common with increasing age or after previous injury.

Common symptoms

• Deep aching shoulder pain
• Stiffness, especially in the morning
• Grinding or clicking sensation
• Reduced range of motion

When to worry

• Pain present most days
• Increasing stiffness and weakness
• Pain interfering with sleep

When to see a doctor

• If shoulder pain is long-standing
• If movement becomes limited
• If pain affects daily life

Early management can help maintain shoulder function.

When Is Shoulder Pain an Emergency?

Seek urgent medical attention if shoulder pain is associated with:

• Sudden inability to move the arm
• Severe pain after a fall or injury
• Obvious deformity of the shoulder
• Fever, redness, or signs of infection
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm

Key Takeaway

Shoulder pain is common and often improves with simple measures, but persistent or worsening shoulder pain should not be ignored.

Identifying the cause early allows for effective treatment, pain relief, and prevention of long-term shoulder problems.

If shoulder pain is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, a doctor can assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate care.