Shoulder Pain. Shoulder Pain. Will you ever go away?
More than likely you or somebody you know has dealt with shoulder pain in past.
So why is it so common?
The shoulder is a complex joint with many moving parts to allow it to function freely as it does. Of all the joints in the body the shoulder has the greatest degree of movement. This is due to its ball and socket structure that allows us to perform tasks overhead, out in front and to the side. However it is this freedom that makes the shoulder susceptible to injury. A healthy shoulder is not inhibited during movement. Instead cartilage, muscle and ligaments are used to promote stability and support while allowing for a level of flexibility to be present too. It is for this reason a baseline level of strength is require to ensure everything runs smoothly. When something impacts this balance in strength and movement a problem may occur.
Shoulder pain can be cause by a range of different factors:
Direct trauma to the shoulder capsule
Strains or ruptures of surrounding muscles
Poor scapular biomechanics
Repeated overuse (particularly in overhead or out stretched positions)
Age related changes (eg. arthritis)
Referral from the neck
*Or any combination of the above
Depending on the underlying cause, pain can present as localised sharp pain, shooting pain, burning pain or diffuse dull aching. Giving this information to your physiotherapist or treating medical professional is helpful for ruling in and out specific structures that may be affected.
So what can be done to treat your shoulder?
When it comes to treatment for shoulder pain it is important to treat the root cause. That’s where seeking professional help comes in. They will help with an in-depth assessment of movement, strength and affected function. Rest alone is often not good enough to prevent recurrence or further aggrevation. Instead, a tailored approach to recovery that takes into account your daily activities and occupation is recommended. This will include education around possible positions to avoid or modify if an activity cannot be avoid in its entirety. Combine this approach with a strengthening program to restore balance to the strength and movement equation and we have a good recipe for full recovery.
Recovery from shoulder pain typical has four stages:
Offload the site of injury.
Restore joint movement (with respect to healing time frames)
Increase surrounding muscle strength and endurance
Train for return to life / return to play
If you would like help and guidance when it comes to recovering from shoulder pain come book a 1-on-1 session in with one of our trusted physiotherapists that guide you out of pain and provide you a personalised recovery program that takes into account your outcomes, profession and goals.
Contact PEP Movement on 45 730 740 or book in clinic at 494 George Street, South Windsor
Written by:
Michael Ward - Physiotherapist