You may not be aware of the many ways you use your shoulder muscles everyday — until common tasks like typing on a keyboard, lifting a basket of laundry or reaching for something across a table, become painful.

Here are four common causes of shoulder pain:

Shoulder Pain Culprit No. 1: Rotator Cuff Injury

Rotator cuff injuries can be caused by a one-time injury or wear and tear from long-term overuse, such as in a job or sport.

Symptoms may include:

• A dull, deep ache
• Trouble sleeping
• Limited range of motion

It’s always important to see a doctor to determine the extent of your injury. While most rotator cuff injuries can heal on their own, some may require additional treatment.

If you have a minor rotator cuff injury, follow these simple steps at home:

• Rest your shoulder
• Avoid activities that cause pain
• Use ice or heat on your shoulder, whichever feels better
• Take medicines to help with pain, swelling and inflammation

If you have a more severe rotator cuff injury, you may also need physical therapy or surgery.

Work with a doctor to determine the treatment that’s right for you.

Shoulder Pain Culprit No. 2: Bursitis

Bursitis happens when the bursa — a fluid-filled sac that lubricates and protects your shoulder muscle — becomes inflamed or irritated. Similar to rotator cuff injuries, it can be caused by constant overuse of your shoulder or sudden injury.

Here are a few steps you can take to lessen the pain:

• Avoid activities that cause pain
• Ice the injury
• Do gentle stretching to loosen the muscle
• Take anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen

Be sure to see your doctor if the pain doesn’t go away or begins to affect your daily life.

Shoulder Pain Culprit No. 3: Dislocation

A dislocated shoulder (upper arm bone out of its socket) typically results from a sudden impact like a fall, car accident or sports injury. If you suspect your shoulder is dislocated, seek medical help right away. A doctor will need to guide your bone back into its socket and can help you manage your pain. After your shoulder is back in place, it will usually heal on its own. Surgery is only required in severe cases.

Shoulder Pain Culprit No. 4: Arthritis

Many types of arthritis can affect your shoulder including:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) – happens when the flexible tissue at the ends of your bones is worn down
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – happens when your joints are inflamed
• Posttraumatic arthritis – happens when the flexible tissue at the ends of your bones is worn down as a result of a previous injury or trauma

Arthritis sufferers usually experience pain, stiffness and loss of movement and range. If you have arthritis, it’s important to work closely with a doctor on the treatment plan that’s best for you. Your plan may include:

• Over-the-counter medicines, such as anti-inflammatories
• Prescription medicines, like Corticosteroid steroids
• Physical therapy
• Regular heat or icing treatments at home
• Surgery

Don’t let shoulder pain slow you down. Call Tanner’s free, 24-hour physician referral line at 770-214-CARE (2273) or select “Find a Provider” at tanner.org to make an appointment today. To learn more about Tanner Ortho and Spine Center, visit TannerOrtho.org.

Carrollton Orthopaedic Clinic has locations in Bremen, Carrollton and Villa Rica. For more information, visit carrolltonortho.com or call 770-834-0873.