Shoulder Tendon & Nerve Injuries
Tendon and nerve injuries in the shoulder can cause pain, weakness and sensory changes that may extend beyond the shoulder into the arm.
What are Shoulder Tendon & Nerve Injuries?
Shoulder tendon and nerve injuries affect the tendons and nerves around the shoulder that help support movement and sensation. They are different from rotator cuff injuries and may involve the biceps tendon, the shoulder labrum or nearby nerves that travel through the shoulder region.
Common Types of Tendon & Nerve Injuries
Bicep Tendon Injuries
The biceps tendon helps stabilize the shoulder and bend the elbow. Injury or inflammation can cause pain in the front of the shoulder, especially with lifting or overhead activity.
Labral Associated Tendon Issues
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the shoulder joint. Injuries in this area can affect nearby tendons and lead to deep shoulder pain, catching sensations or a feeling of instability.
Nerve Compression Symptoms
Nerve irritation or compression near the shoulder can cause tingling, numbness or weakness that may extend into the arm or hand.
Tendon & Nerve Injury Symptoms
Tendon and nerve injuries can affect people in different ways, but common symptoms include:
- Shoulder pain, especially with movement or lifting
- Weakness in the shoulder or arm
- Clicking, catching or a sense of instability
- Tingling, numbness or radiating discomfort into the arm
- Difficulty with overhead or repetitive activities
Tendon & Nerve Injury Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to the specific injury and your symptoms, with many patients finding relief through nonsurgical options.
Common treatment options include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to improve strength and shoulder stability
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation
If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, surgery may be recommended to restore function and relieve pain.
Meet Our Shoulder Team
As part of the Summa Health Orthopedics Institute, our shoulder team is led by board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons with advanced expertise in treating shoulder conditions and injuries. Working closely with therapists and other specialists, they provide personalized care focused on relieving pain, restoring function and helping patients return to the activities they enjoy.