How to Diagnose Shoulder Pain: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Diagnose Shoulder Pain: A Step-by-Step Guide
Why It Matters
Diagnosing shoulder pain can be tricky, but understanding the process can help you get to the root of the problem. Follow this guide to learn how medical professionals identify shoulder issues.
Contents
- Step 1: Traumatic vs. Nontraumatic
- Step 2: Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Causes
- Step 3: Glenohumeral vs. Extraglenohumeral
Step 1: Traumatic vs. Nontraumatic
The first step in diagnosing shoulder pain is determining if the pain is due to trauma. Traumatic injuries often include fractures, dislocations, or sprains, which are typically identified through patient history and physical examination. Visual deformities and localized pain are often present, making it easier to diagnose with the help of X-rays.
Step 2: Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Causes
Once trauma is ruled out, the next step is to see if the pain is due to extrinsic (referred) or intrinsic (shoulder-specific) causes. Extrinsic pain is often vague and hard to localize, while intrinsic pain can usually be pinpointed to a specific area of the shoulder. A deeper look into the patient's history and associated symptoms can provide clues.

Step 3: Glenohumeral vs. Extraglenohumeral
If intrinsic issues are suspected, the focus shifts to whether the glenohumeral joint or other areas are involved. Pain localized to the glenohumeral joint often indicates conditions like rotator cuff tears, while pain outside this joint might involve structures like the AC joint.
FAQs
How do doctors start diagnosing shoulder pain?
Doctors first check if the pain is from trauma.
What's the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic shoulder pain?
Extrinsic pain is referred from other areas, while intrinsic pain originates in the shoulder.
How is shoulder joint pain identified?
Pain in the glenohumeral joint suggests issues like rotator cuff tears.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the steps in diagnosing shoulder pain can guide you towards effective treatment.
Additional References
- Holmes RE, Barfield WR, Woolf SK. Clinical evaluation of nonarthritic shoulder pain: Diagnosis and treatment. Phys Sportsmed 2015; 43:262.
- Johnson TR. The shoulder. In: Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care, Snider RK (Ed), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Rosemont 1997.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.