What should you know about shoulder socket pain when lifting arm?

Pain in the outer or front shoulder during elevation may occur with rotator cuff tendinitis or shoulder impingement. Calcific tendinitis can cause marked pain and difficulty moving the arm. A rotator cuff tear may present with weakness after an injury or with repeated loading. Frozen shoulder tends to restrict several directions, not only lifting. Shoulder osteoarthritis can cause deep socket pain, stiffness, and grinding. Cervical radiculopathy may cause neck pain, tingling, or symptoms that travel below the shoulder.

Reduce heavy overhead work and keep objects close to the body while symptoms settle. Continue gentle movement within a comfortable range so the shoulder does not become more restricted. Avoid repeatedly lifting the arm to test it. Note whether pain occurs on the way up, on the way down, or at rest, and whether weakness prevents dressing or reaching. A clinician can compare both shoulders and decide whether physiotherapy or imaging is useful.

Arrange care if the pain persists, disturbs sleep, or steadily reduces movement. Seek prompt assessment for sudden weakness after an injury. Go urgently for a visibly deformed shoulder, severe swelling, new arm numbness, chest discomfort, breathing difficulty, or a cold or discoloured hand.

Which structure is tender or weak on examination? Should I change work or sport temporarily? What range of motion is safe, and when should I begin strengthening? Could my neck be contributing to the pain?