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Symptom Checker

Step 4: Read and complete the decision guide to learn more about your symptoms.

Shoulder Pain

Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain include

degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis)

  • rheumatoid arthritis (especially if there is swelling in multiple joints)

  • polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)

  • bursitis

  • tendonitis, including rotator cuff disease

  • a viral infection.

Some combination of these or another arthritic disease is also possible.

While over-the-counter pain medicines, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms (unless they are improving on their own).

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Disclaimer: This content should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of a call or visit to a health professional. Use of this content is subject to specific terms of use & medical disclaimers.