Shoulder Symptoms

When an AC Joint separation occurs, it is immediately accompanied by significant pain in the shoulder, as well as limited movement and range of motion in that joint. It will often be accompanied by swelling and bruising after the injury, tenderness at the formation of the joint, and a possible deformity at the outer portion of the collarbone. In some cases, a bump or malformation may become visible on top of the shoulder.

When a shoulder dislocation or subluxation occurs, it is also accompanied by severe pain in the joint. There is almost limited to no range of motion possible in the shoulder once it is dislocated. Often times, when touching the joint from the side (around the deltoid muscle) it will have a mushy feeling as if the humeral head (which lies underneath) is displaced toward the front of the shoulder.

Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include somewhat constant pain and weakness in the shoulder. The pain is often on the side and front of the upper arm and around the shoulder. Because it creates a limited range of motion in the shoulder, it often will be difficult to reach over your head or towards your back. Pain is often also intensified while doing more mundane activities where the shoulder gets little movement or motion (such as sleeping).