Conditions we Treat
Shoulder Pain
Introduction.
Shoulder pain is a common problem that can make everyday activities such as reaching overhead, lifting, dressing or sleeping uncomfortable. Because the shoulder is one of the body’s most mobile joints, many different structures can contribute to pain. Although symptoms can be worrying, many shoulder conditions respond well to appropriate management. A thorough assessment is the best way to identify what may be contributing to your symptoms.
What is it?
Shoulder pain is a broad term describing discomfort arising from the shoulder joint or the surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, bursae or other soft tissues. Pain may develop suddenly following an injury or gradually over time. As several different conditions can affect the shoulder, identifying the underlying cause is important to guide the most appropriate management.
Symptoms.
Shoulder pain may present as aching, sharp pain, stiffness or weakness during everyday activities. You may notice discomfort when reaching overhead, lifting, throwing, fastening a seatbelt or lying on the affected side. Some people also experience reduced movement. Seek prompt medical assessment if pain follows significant trauma, you cannot lift your arm, develop marked swelling or deformity, or experience fever with a hot, swollen shoulder.
Causes.
Shoulder pain rarely has a single cause and is often influenced by several factors. Tendon problems, muscle strains, bursitis, joint irritation, frozen shoulder, osteoarthritis, sporting activities, repetitive overhead work, previous injuries and age-related changes may all contribute. Pain may also occasionally be referred from the neck, making a detailed assessment important.
How we can help…
Following a comprehensive assessment, we will explain what may be contributing to your shoulder pain and discuss the management options most appropriate for you. Depending on your presentation, this may include chiropractic treatment where clinically appropriate, manual therapy, rehabilitation, education and advice. Recommendations are always based on your assessment findings, goals and personal preferences, with referral arranged if clinically indicated.
Rehabilitation and self-management.
Maintaining appropriate shoulder movement and gradually rebuilding strength are often important parts of recovery. Activity modification, progressive exercise and avoiding prolonged inactivity may help improve symptoms while supporting normal shoulder function. Your rehabilitation programme will always be tailored to your condition, symptoms and personal goals.
What to expect at your assessment.
Your appointment begins with a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, work, hobbies and goals before an appropriate physical examination. We assess your shoulder movement, strength and function, and where appropriate examine related areas such as your neck. We will explain our findings clearly and discuss whether imaging or referral is appropriate if clinically indicated.
What happens next.
Following your assessment, we will explain the likely diagnosis, discuss your prognosis and outline the management options available. If appropriate, we will develop a personalised management plan designed around your goals and review your progress over time. Recovery varies depending on the underlying cause of your shoulder pain and your individual circumstances.