Shoulder Pain Treatment in the UK: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Relief
Shoulder pain is a common issue that can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Whether it’s caused by a muscle strain, rotator cuff injury, or frozen shoulder, shoulder pain can interfere with daily activities and impact your quality of life.
At our clinic, our experienced practitioners specialize in treating a variety of shoulder problems with a tailored approach that addresses your unique needs. We understand the frustration shoulder pain can cause and are committed to providing effective treatments to help you find relief.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can be caused by various factors. Some of the most common include:
- Rotator cuff injuries (tendonitis, tears, or strains)
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Muscle strains or sprains
- Arthritis in the shoulder joint
- Bursitis (inflammation of the shoulder’s fluid-filled sacs)
- Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons)
- Shoulder dislocation or instability
- Postural issues (poor posture causing muscle strain)
Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain may be accompanied by various symptoms, such as:
- Pain in the shoulder joint or upper arm
- Limited range of motion or stiffness
- Pain while lifting or reaching overhead
- Weakness or fatigue in the shoulder
- Tenderness or swelling around the joint
- Pain radiating down the arm
Common Symptoms
- Osteopathy
- Advanced Clinical Massage
- Manual Therapy
- Sports Massage
- Pregnancy/Postnatal Massage
- Shockwave Therapy
Patient praises
Shoulder Pain FAQ's
Our patients consistently praise our clinic for providing personalized care that addresses the root cause of their shoulder pain. With effective treatments and compassionate support, many have seen significant improvement in mobility and quality of life. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked:
Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Rotator cuff injuries (tears or strains)
- Frozen shoulder (loss of motion)
- Bursitis and tendinitis from overuse or injury
- Arthritis affecting the shoulder joint
- Postural imbalances leading to muscle strain
- Sports injuries or accidents
Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.
A rotator cuff injury typically causes pain when lifting the arm, especially overhead, and may result in weakness or limited range of motion in the shoulder. Other symptoms may include pain at night or discomfort when reaching behind the back. An assessment by a healthcare professional can confirm the diagnosis.
Yes, poor posture is a common cause of shoulder pain, particularly in individuals who sit for long periods. Bad posture can strain the muscles around the shoulder and upper back, leading to discomfort, stiffness, and even muscle imbalances over time.
We offer several treatments, including:
- Osteopathy to improve joint movement and reduce pain
- Manual therapy to address stiffness and improve mobility
- Sports massage to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility
- Shockwave therapy for chronic tendon injuries and pain relief
- Pregnancy/postnatal massage for shoulder pain relief during and after pregnancy
Your healthcare provider will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and condition.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity and cause of your shoulder pain. Minor muscle strains may improve within a few days with proper rest and care, while more severe conditions like rotator cuff tears or frozen shoulder may take weeks or months to heal. A personalized treatment plan will help expedite recovery.
Yes, most shoulder pain can be managed effectively without the need for surgery. Non-invasive treatments such as physical therapy, osteopathy, massage therapy, and shockwave therapy are often highly effective in relieving pain and improving mobility. Surgery is typically considered for severe or persistent cases that don’t respond to conservative treatments.
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues, such as tendons and muscles. It’s especially effective for chronic shoulder conditions like tendinitis or calcific rotator cuff injuries. This treatment promotes blood flow, reduces pain, and accelerates tissue regeneration.
To prevent shoulder pain:
- Maintain good posture when sitting, standing, and lifting
- Strengthen the shoulder muscles with targeted exercises
- Take regular breaks from repetitive activities
- Warm up properly before physical activity to avoid strain
- Avoid lifting heavy objects improperly or overexerting the shoulder
You should seek medical advice if:
- Your shoulder pain is severe or worsening
- You experience significant weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arm
- You have trouble moving your shoulder or arm
- You’ve had a recent injury or fall
A professional evaluation will help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Yes, shoulder pain can sometimes be related to conditions affecting other parts of the body, such as heart disease, cervical spine issues, or lung problems. If the pain is sudden, sharp, or accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.