How can i tell if my shoulder pain is from my shoulder or referred from my neck?

Move it: This is a little of a generalization, but... Most people with shoulder pain from a nerve problem in the neck will not hurt to move their shoulder and often the pain is improved by raising the shoulder. Most people with a shoulder problem hurt to move their shoulder, particularly to raise it. Also pain running down the arm into hand suggests nerve as well.

Location of pain.: Shoulder problems can radiate down to the elbow. Pain radiating below the elbow and into the hand is usually from the neck.