What's causing my shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain is rarely straightforward, it’s often a combination of joint, muscle and tendon problems, and sometimes it isn’t even coming from the shoulder itself, but may be coming from the neck. It can affect everything from sleep and getting dressed to lifting, driving and getting back to sport, which makes an accurate diagnosis all the more important. We always start with a full assessment, so that we can identify exactly what’s causing your shoulder pain and build a plan around it, not just treat where it hurts.
The shoulder is actually made up of four separate joints and is the most mobile, yet least stable, joint in the body. It relies on a complex, synchronised pattern of muscle and joint movement to stay stable and that same mobility is what makes it prone to injury, whether through trauma or overuse.
Here are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain or issues we see at goPhysio:
- Ligament sprains, such as an AC joint sprain
- Rotator cuff injuries and tendinopathies (which shockwave therapy can be really effective for)
- Sub-acromial pain syndrome (SAPS), including shoulder impingement
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Muscle and ligament tears
- Tendon problems, such as biceps tendinopathy
- Shoulder dislocation or subluxation
- Rehab after fractures of the humerus or collarbone
- Shoulder pain referred from the neck
Shoulder pain can feel more alarming than it is – reduced movement or clicking doesn’t automatically mean something is seriously wrong. Part of our role is helping you understand exactly what’s going on, clearly and confidently. Clinically reviewed by Paul Baker MCSP, Co-founder & Clinical Director at goPhysio
Used goPhysio for the first time for a long standing shoulder injury. Quick and efficient in getting an appointment and then have had friendly and skilled advice and physio. Supported by an online report incorporating exercises to do at home, my perception after only one session is totally positive and I’d recommend goPhysio without question.
C. HEDGES
Can physiotherapy help my shoulder pain?
Yes – we start with a thorough assessment to find out exactly what’s driving your shoulder pain, then build a treatment plan around it. This is usually a mix of hands-on treatment, such as soft tissue work, taping, trigger point release, mobilisations, shockwave therapy or acupuncture, alongside exercises to rebuild strength, flexibility, stability and movement.
A key part of recovery is making sure all the joints and muscles around your shoulder are working well together — this is what helps prevent the problem coming back. With our range of on-site services, we can support your full recovery from a shoulder injury with specific exercise rehab and or clinical Pilates – both of which can really help prevent your shoulder pain coming back.
Not sure what to do next?
- Ready to get started? → Book Your Shoulder Assessment.
- Think your pain might be coming from your neck? → Read About Neck Pain.
- Need more targeted treatment for a tendon problem? → Learn About Shockwave Therapy.