Shoulder Pain Disorders
Adhesive Capsulitis occurs due to immobilization and is characterized by pain and decrease range of motion. Might benefit from steroid injections, physiotherapy or referral.
Bicipital Tendinitis occurs due to overuse of the muscle and is characterized by anterior shoulder pain which increases with resisted shoulder flexion (Speed's test) and resisted forearm flexion (Yergason's sign). Treatment might include NSAIDs, steroid injection or physiotherapy.
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis occur due to overuse and is characterized by anterolateral shoulder pain which increases with lateral palpation, internal and external rotation, and abduction. Treatment might include NSAIDs, steroid injection or physiotherapy.
Rotator Cuff Tear occurs due to injury or degeneration and is characterized by anterolateral shoulder pain which increases with lateral palpation, internal and external rotation, and abduction which is difficult to maintain (drop test). Refer to orthopedics for surgery.
Subacromial bursitis occurs due to overuse and characterized by pain in the lateral aspect of the shoulder. This condition involves inflammation of the bursa located under the acromion. Pain is often felt during resisted abduction, especially beyond 75 to 80 degrees, also has a painful arc test (abduction 60-120 degrees elicit pain). (Internal and external rotation are normal compared to rotator cuff issues).
Impingement Syndrome due to compression of the rotator cuff tendons and/or the subacromial bursa between the acromion and the humeral head. Similar to subacromial bursitis, with pain during overhead activities and a painful arc of motion. Neer Test: Pain when the arm is passively elevated in the scapular plane while the scapula is stabilized. Hawkins-Kennedy Test: Pain when the shoulder is flexed to 90° and internally rotated. Painful Arc Test: Pain typically occurs between 60° and 120° of abduction.
You can read more about the shoulder disorders using this book Practical office orthopedics.
This post covers the points you need to know for your board exams as well as for teaching residents on the daily rounds. Medical professionals can't use the information here to treat their patients nor people can use the information her to treat themselves. If you are having any medical issues, contact your doctor or local emergency services.