[27F] Experiencing shoulder and knee pain with fatigue and bruising

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tear: This is a common cause of pain and disability among adults. It occurs when the rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder are irritated or damaged. The pain is usually worse when you raise your arm or lift something above your head. The pain can be severe and may wake you from sleep.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and pain relievers. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Frozen Shoulder: Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition occurs when the tissues in your shoulder joint become thicker and tighter, and scar tissue develops, reducing the space for your upper arm bone to move around. The pain is usually constant, worse at night, and when the weather is colder.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers, physical therapy, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause problems with the shoulders, particularly in people over 50. However, younger people can also be affected, especially if they have had a severe shoulder injury.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Rest your shoulder and avoid activities that make your pain worse.
2. Apply a cold pack to your shoulder for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Gentle range-of-motion exercises can help maintain flexibility and strength in your shoulder.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your shoulder pain is accompanied by difficulty breathing or chest tightness.
• Your shoulder appears deformed.
• You cannot use your shoulder or arm at all.
• Your pain is intense and sudden.
• You have signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever.