Answer 1
Joint, tendons, cervical radiculopathy, brachial plexus, apex of lung, bony destruction of humerus or scapula, gall bladder, heart and pericardium are all possible sources of shoulder pain.
Answer 2
Tendinitis is the most likely cause of pain. A cervical radiculopathy is less likely. Acute inflammation from hemorrhage or crystals would be unusual in the shoulder.
Answer 3
Your major diagnostic possibilities include the joint, surrounding soft tissue and referred nerve root. Key physical findings include: swelling in the joint, passive and active range of motion, tenderness of biceps tendons and subacromial space, and neurologic exam of the arm.
Answer 4
No further testing is needed. In light of the absence of systemic symptoms and brief duration of pain x-rays are unlikely to yield new information.
Answer 5A
No further testing is needed. In light of the absence of systemic symptoms and brief duration of pain x-rays are unlikely to yield new information.
Answer 6
Local corticosteroid injection or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are effective. Physical therapy is useful for refractory cases.