Referred shoulder pain is pain felt in the shoulder area but originating from a different location in the body. This type of pain can be challenging to diagnose because the source is often distant from where it is felt. Several sources of referred shoulder pain include:
Neck Problems: Cervical spine issues, such as herniated discs, cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerves), or cervical osteoarthritis, can cause pain that radiates down into the shoulder and upper arm.
Heart Conditions: Certain heart problems, such as angina (chest pain) or heart attacks, can cause pain that radiates to the left shoulder and arm. This is often accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.
Diaphragm Irritation: Inflammation or irritation of the diaphragm, which is just below the lungs, can cause pain that is felt in the shoulder, particularly on the right side.
Gallbladder Disease: Gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder can lead to referred pain in the right shoulder blade area.
Liver Problems: Liver disease or inflammation can cause pain that is felt in the right shoulder or the upper right abdomen.
Lung Conditions: Conditions like pneumonia or lung cancer can cause referred pain to the shoulder, often on the same side as the affected lung.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can result in referred pain to the left shoulder.
Abdominal Conditions: Irritation or issues with organs in the abdominal area, such as the spleen, can sometimes cause pain that radiates to the left shoulder.
It's crucial to consider referred pain when diagnosing shoulder pain, especially if there are no apparent shoulder injuries or conditions.
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