Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common condition that can have a significant impact on a person's life.

Conditions

Conditions relevant to shoulder pain

Rotator cuff tear
Bursitis
Tendinitis
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Shoulder instability or dislocation
Arthritis
Labrum tear
Fractured collarbone (clavicle)
Shoulder separation (acromioclavicular joint injury)
SLAP (superior labrum anterior to posterior) tear
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Shoulder blade (scapula) fracture
Shoulder blade (scapula) winging
Snapping scapula syndrome
Shoulder osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis of the shoulder
Adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder (also known as “frozen shoulder”)
Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
Subacromial bursitis
Thoracic scoliosis
Shoulder blade (scapula) dislocation
Adhesive capsulitis of the acromioclavicular joint (AC joint)
Brachial plexus injury
Thoracic kyphosis
Snapping biceps syndrome
Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the neck that can cause shoulder pain)

Causes

Possible causes to these conditions

Be aware that each condition may have multiple underlying causes or risk factors. Here are some common causes and risk factors for shoulder conditions:

Overuse or repetitive strain injuries
Trauma or injury, such as a fall or car accident
Poor posture or body mechanics
Aging and natural wear and tear of the shoulder joint
Degenerative diseases, such as arthritis
Genetics or family history of shoulder problems
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or chemotherapy drugs
Smoking or other unhealthy lifestyle habits
Structural abnormalities or malformations, such as an abnormally shaped acromion.
Repetitive overhead motions, such as those performed in sports like swimming or baseball
Heavy lifting or carrying objects
Poor ergonomics in the workplace or during daily activities
Rotator cuff weakness or imbalances
Shoulder instability or dislocation due to previous injury or trauma
Inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
Infections, such as septic arthritis or osteomyelitis
Nerve compression or entrapment, such as thoracic outlet syndrome
Poor circulation or blood flow to the shoulder area
Tumors or growths in or around the shoulder joint.

What we can do

The Potential Benefits of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for shoulder pain. A physiotherapist can design a personalised treatment plan that may include a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and education on proper body mechanics to improve shoulder function and reduce pain. Here are some specific ways that physiotherapy can help with shoulder pain:

Exercises: Physiotherapists can prescribe specific exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve range of motion, and reduce pain. These exercises may include stretching, resistance training, and range of motion exercises.
Manual therapy: Physiotherapists may use hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and manual stretching to help reduce pain and improve shoulder mobility.
Education: A physiotherapist can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to help reduce strain on the shoulder joint. They may also teach exercises and stretches that can be done at home to further support shoulder health.
Modalities: Physiotherapists may use modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and hot or cold therapy to help reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint.
Rehabilitation: For individuals recovering from a shoulder injury or surgery, physiotherapy can play a crucial role in rehabilitation. A physiotherapist can design a rehabilitation program that helps to restore normal shoulder function and reduce pain.
Posture correction: Poor posture can contribute to shoulder pain and dysfunction. A physiotherapist can teach individuals proper posture techniques to help reduce strain on the shoulder joint.
Soft tissue mobilization: Soft tissue mobilization techniques such as myofascial release or trigger point therapy can help relieve tension and reduce pain in the muscles and soft tissues around the shoulder joint.
Neuromuscular re-education: For individuals with shoulder pain due to muscle imbalances or coordination problems, a physiotherapist can use neuromuscular re-education
Taping and bracing: A physiotherapist may use taping or bracing techniques to help support the shoulder joint and reduce pain during activity.
Gradual return to activity: For individuals returning to physical activity after a shoulder injury or surgery, a physiotherapist can design a gradual return to activity plan to help reduce the risk of re-injury.
Home exercise program: A physiotherapist can design a customized home exercise program that can be done independently to help maintain shoulder health and prevent future injury.

Overall, physiotherapy can provide a comprehensive approach to shoulder pain treatment, combining exercises, manual therapy, education, and other techniques to help individuals achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. It is always important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new treatment program for shoulder pain.

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