The shoulder has a very versatile range of motion. Although this makes it an effective and well-used joint, it also means that many things can go wrong within the shoulder joint. If you are experiencing shoulder pain for more than a few consecutive days, visit an orthopedic surgeon for assessment and diagnosis.  Jacksonville orthopedics experts report that these are the top five common reasons that your shoulder is in pain:

#1. Tendonitis

Tendons are a type of connective tissue that connect bone to muscle. Tendonitis occurs when the tendon is inflamed or damaged. Tendonitis may be acute or chronic. Acute tendonitis often occurs after performing certain actions, such as throwing a ball or lifting things above the head. In contrast, chronic tendonitis results from gradual degeneration of the tendon tissue. The rotator cuff tendons, which stabilize the ball of the humerus (upper arm bone) in the shoulder joint, are most often affected by tendonitis.

#2. Fracture

Fractures are most often the result of an acute injury. This might include falling, playing contact sports or getting into a motor vehicle accident. Shoulder pain may result if the humerus, scapula (shoulder blade) or clavicle (collarbone) become fractured. Fractures may range in their severity. Typically, they are characterized by severe shoulder pain, bruised skin and inflammation.

#3. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common condition during aging, with many people beginning to experience shoulder pain in middle age. Osteoarthritis is the consequence of wear and tear on the shoulder joint. Typically, arthritis does not cause sharp or stabbing pain. Instead, symptoms may include aching, stiffness and swelling.

#4. Instability

Shoulder instability is a situation in which the humerus comes out of the shoulder socket. If the ball of the humerus comes partially out of the socket, it is known as a shoulder subluxation. When the ball completely comes out of the socket, orthopedic specialists refer to it as a complete dislocation. Shoulder instability can loosen the tendons, ligaments and muscles holding the shoulder joint in place.

#5. Impingement

Shoulder impingement is a condition in which the anatomy of the shoulder causes soft tissue to be damaged. In this condition, lifting the arm away from the body causes the top of the shoulder blade to put excess pressure onto the bursa and rotator cuff tendons. Over time, this rubbing motion causes the tendon or bursa to become damaged. Southeast Orthopedic Specialists can help you choose the treatment that is best for you.