Muscle · Neck & shoulder · Supraspinatus
Supraspinatus pain
Common at this spot
Ordered by how common, not by search volume.
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Supraspinatus tendinitis
A sharp point of pain only between 60 and 120 degrees as you lift the arm sideways
Why it happens
A tendon swells after an injury — here, the supraspinatus tendon at the top of the shoulder. It comes from sudden movements or repeated exercise such as running, jumping, or throwing, and from repeating the same motion with poor form or technique.
How it feels
- Pain in the tendon that gets worse when you move
- Trouble moving that joint
- A grating or crackling feeling when the tendon moves
- Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness
How long it usually lasts
Mild tendonitis should feel better within 2 to 3 weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after a few weeks. Get urgent advice if the pain is severe or you think the tendon has ruptured.
Source: NHS (UK)
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Calcific tendinitis
It throbs even at rest and can be bad enough to keep you from falling asleep
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Partial supraspinatus tear
The arm gives way under load and the top of the shoulder feels raw
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Subacromial bursitis
The tip of the shoulder feels stiff when lifting and is tender to press
Get help right away ifSee a doctor if you have a high temperature or feel shivery — that can mean infection.
Why it happens
The fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint becomes painful and swollen. It happens mostly at the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee — here, under the tip of the shoulder.
How it feels
- A dull, constant ache
- Swelling and tenderness
- Worse when you move it or press on it
- The area feels warm and looks red
How long it usually lasts
It usually goes away in a few weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after 1 to 2 weeks of self-care or is getting worse, if you cannot move the joint, or if the pain is severe and sharp.
Source: NHS (UK)
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Suprascapular nerve entrapment
A heavy ache behind the shoulder and weakness in the arm