Where's the Shoulder Pain?

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Shoulder pain can come from rotator cuff injuries incurred during sports, or from falls and other accidents. These are known as traumatic conditions. These types of shoulder injuries include tears and separation of ligaments, muscles, tendons, and bones.

Shoulder pain can also happen because of gradual wear and tear to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles. This is known as a degenerative condition, and includes arthritis and conditions due to overuse of the shoulder joint. Certain athletes are susceptible to these conditions. So are people who perform repetitive, overhead movements (such as ceiling painters).

Is it a sprain or a strain?

A strain is an injury to the muscles and the tendons that attach the muscles to the bone.

A sprain is an injury of the ligaments, which connect the joints and cartilage to the bones.

To understand the type of shoulder injury you have, consider the differences between ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

Ligaments:

Ligaments are short bands of connective tissues

are strong and durable

are often compared to ropes due to their connective functioning

are somewhat elastic and flexible

connect bone to bone to make up a joint

connect cartilage to bone

do NOT connect bone to muscles (tendons do this)

provide joint stability

injury to shoulder ligaments is called a sprain

ligament (joint) injuries and dislocations must be set quickly, or frequent dislocation can result

ligaments heal slowly

Tendons:

tendons are also called sinews

connect muscle to bone

do NOT connect bone or cartilage to bone (ligaments do this)

are tough, very strong, and inflexible

genetic differences in tendon length contribute to athletic ability and muscle formation

chronic swelling and pain of the tendon can be due to tendonitis

shoulder tendonitis may be due to overuse of the joint, injury, or other causes

tendons heal slowly

Muscles:

muscle tissues contract and relax to allow movement

injury to the shoulder muscles may be called a strain (or a strained shoulder)

muscle injuries are also called pulled muscles, a muscle tear, or torn muscles

Pain Pump Resources

• About Shoulder Pain Pumps
• Larsen and Hansen Medical Studies on PAGCL
• Medical Studies and PAGCL
• Medical Equipment Manufacturers Ignored Risk for PAGCL
• Where's the Shoulder Pain?
• Shoulder Dislocation
• Shoulder Anatomy