In the shoulder area there are four joints which, with synchronized movement, allow wide range of upper arm movements. The largest and most important is the glenohumeral joint while the other are acromioclavicular joint, sternoclavicular joint and scapulothoracic joint. Although the latter is not a real joint as it does not have articular surface or capsule, it still participates in movements of the shoulder by gliding of the scapula over the chest. Shoulder ligaments and muscles are responsible for stabilization of the shoulder joint. Besides stabilization, muscles also perform movements of the shoulder. Possible movements are: abduction, adduction, anteflexion, retroflexion, internal and external rotation. Extraarticular rheumatism is a term that encompasses inflammatory and degenerative musculoskeletal pain syndromes that affect soft tissue around the joints. Tissues that can be affected include: tendons, tendon insertions, bursae, fasciae, muscles and capsule. Extraarticular rheumatism is divided into primary (unknown etiology) and secondary (caused by systemic rheumatic diseases, endocrinological disorders, tumors or drugs). The general diagnosis that presents a shoulder problem is painfull shoulder syndrome and it is most often caused by extraarticular rheumatism. Extraarticular rheumatism of the shoulder includes: subacromial impigement syndrome, subacromial bursitis, calcific tendinitis, rotator cuff tear and adhesive capsulitis. All of them are characterized by similar symptoms such as pain and limited range of motion. Diagnosis is based upon past medical history, clinical presentation and physical examination. If there is any doubt about diagnosis, imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance, can help. Treatment usually begins with physical therapy supported by medication. If conservative therapy is not succsesfull, patients can undergo surgery.