It Wasn’t Just Shoulder Pain – A Case of Malignant Humeral Tumor

by Son’s Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

“Even after two injections, the pain worsened. A repeat X-ray revealed something far more serious.”

A patient recently visited Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic complaining of persistent left shoulder pain. The pain was severe, worsened at night, and interfered with sleep. There was no history of trauma, and shoulder mobility was relatively preserved—but the pain pattern was not typical of common conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy or frozen shoulder.

Pain Worsened Despite Two Injections

Considering a possible rotator cuff issue or calcific tendinitis, we proceeded with two sessions of injection therapy as an initial conservative approach. Surprisingly, instead of improving, the pain intensified and began radiating throughout the upper arm.

The progression and intensity of pain raised red flags. The deep, aching quality—particularly worsening at night—suggested that the cause might not be musculoskeletal alone, but possibly originating from the bone itself.

Repeat X-ray Revealed a Critical Finding

Given the unusual pain response, we carefully re-reviewed the original X-ray and decided to take a new, focused radiograph of the affected area. This time, the image clearly showed abnormal bone destruction in the proximal humerus, consistent with a malignant lesion rather than a benign or degenerative condition.

Urgent Referral and Final Diagnosis

We immediately referred the patient to the orthopedic oncology department of a university hospital. After advanced imaging and a biopsy, the patient was diagnosed with a malignant humeral tumor. The patient is now undergoing appropriate treatment under the care of a multidisciplinary cancer team.

When Shoulder Pain Warrants a Second Look

This case is a strong reminder that not all shoulder pain is benign. We must be especially vigilant when the following signs are present:

  • Worsening pain even after standard treatments (e.g., injections)

  • Deep, dull, and persistent pain especially at night

  • Pain that radiates beyond the joint to the upper arm

  • Bone tenderness without significant joint motion restriction

  • Systemic signs like weight loss, fatigue, or poor appetite

Pain is a Signal, Not Just a Symptom

At Son Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic, we believe in treating pain not just as a symptom to suppress, but as a meaningful signal to interpret. When patients do not respond to treatment as expected, we don’t dismiss it—we look again, more carefully.

Through honest diagnosis, attentive care, and timely referral when necessary, we aim to protect our patients' health and even their lives.

“Even seemingly ordinary pain may hold the key to uncovering something life-threatening. Let’s not miss the signal.”

– Dr. Cheolho Son 

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

chson@daum.net

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