What would cause sharp pains that radiate down arm after a shoulder injury?
1. Rotator cuff injury: The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to stabilize it. A rotator cuff injury can occur when one or more of these muscles or tendons is torn, inflamed, or impinged. Rotator cuff injuries can cause sharp pain in the shoulder that radiates down the arm, as well as weakness and stiffness in the shoulder.
2. Bicep tendonitis: Bicep tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon that connects the bicep muscle to the shoulder joint. Bicep tendonitis can be caused by overuse of the shoulder, trauma, or a combination of factors. It can cause sharp pain in the shoulder that radiates down the arm, as well as tenderness over the bicep tendon.
3. SLAP tear: A SLAP tear is a tear in the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint. SLAP tears can be caused by trauma, overuse, or a combination of factors. They can cause sharp pain in the shoulder that radiates down the arm, as well as clicking or catching in the shoulder.
4. Shoulder dislocation: A shoulder dislocation occurs when the humerus, the bone in the upper arm, is forced out of the shoulder joint. Shoulder dislocations can be caused by trauma, such as a fall or a car accident. They can cause sharp pain in the shoulder that radiates down the arm, as well as swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the shoulder.
5. Broken collarbone: A broken collarbone, also known as a clavicle fracture, is a break in the bone that connects the shoulder to the chest. Broken collarbones can be caused by trauma, such as a fall or a car accident. They can cause sharp pain in the shoulder that radiates down the arm, as well as swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the shoulder.
If you are experiencing sharp pains in your shoulder that radiate down your arm after a shoulder injury, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.