A patient with shoulder pain after lifting a heavy weight likely has which condition?

The condition indicated by shoulder pain following the lifting of a heavy weight is commonly associated with sub-acromial impingement syndrome. This condition occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are pinched or compressed under the acromion, which is the bony prominence on the shoulder blade.

When an individual lifts a heavy weight, especially with an overhead motion, the shoulder joint can be put under strain. This can exacerbate any existing swelling or inflammation in the shoulder area, leading to pain. Sub-acromial impingement syndrome typically presents with pain that might worsen with activities that involve overhead lifting or reaching, which aligns with the presented scenario.

In contrast, while a rotator cuff tear could certainly cause pain during such activities, it usually also presents with weakness in addition to pain or even a catching sensation. Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is characterized by stiffness and limited range of motion rather than the acute onset of pain following lifting. Shoulder bursitis may also lead to pain, but it is often more generalized and can occur without a specific lifting injury.

Thus, the mechanism of injury and the presentation of symptoms support that sub-acromial impingement syndrome is the most likely condition in this scenario.