Shoulder Pain & Common Causes
Written by Osteopath Georgia Hutchinson
Shoulder pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Due to the shoulder's unique structure and range of motion, it’s highly susceptible to injury and wear-and-tear conditions.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint and allow for smooth motion. Overuse, trauma, or wear and tear may lead to rotator cuff injuries, such as:
Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often due to repetitive activities.
Tears: Tendons in the rotator cuff may partially or fully tear, usually from sudden trauma or gradual degeneration.
Impingement Syndrome: When the rotator cuff is pinched or “impinged” between the bones, leading to pain and restricted movement.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens, leading to stiffness and pain. It often progresses in stages—freezing, frozen, and thawing—which can span over months or even years. This condition may make simple movements challenging and painful, limiting daily activities.
Shoulder Bursitis
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between bones and soft tissues. When these sacs become inflamed due to overuse, injury, or pressure, it’s called bursitis. Shoulder bursitis may cause sharp pain and tenderness, especially when lifting the arm.
Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint moves out of its normal position. This may result from sudden injury, repetitive overuse, or weakened joint structures. Instability often presents as a “loose” feeling in the shoulder, along with pain and is associated with a higher likelihood of dislocation.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the shoulder develops when the cartilage protecting the shoulder joints wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion. OA is more common in older adults and may limit daily activities if not managed effectively.
Labral Tears
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket, which helps to stabilise the shoulder joint. A tear in this structure, often due to trauma or repetitive overhead movements, which may cause pain, clicking, or a sense of instability in the shoulder.
How Osteopathy may Help with Shoulder Pain
Comprehensive Assessment
An osteopath can assess the shoulder and surrounding areas, aiming to identify any restrictions or dysfunction that might be contributing to pain. This thorough evaluation also considers movement patterns, and other lifestyle factors that may impact shoulder health.
Manual Therapy
Osteopathic treatment for shoulder pain may include techniques like joint articulation, soft tissue massage, and myofascial release to reduce tension, increase blood flow, and promote tissue healing. This approach may help to improve mobility, reduce pain, and reduce inflammation.
Exercise Recommendations
Exercises designed to strengthen the rotator cuff, shoulder stabilizers, and surrounding muscles may improve stability and support recovery. An osteopath may suggest gentle, targeted exercises tailored to your condition, helping you safely rebuild shoulder strength.
Lifestyle and Self-Care Advice
In addition to manual therapy, osteopaths often offer tips for managing shoulder pain at home, such as using hot or cold packs, adjusting sleeping positions, and incorporating rest and recovery into your routine.
When to Seek Help for Shoulder Pain
While occasional shoulder discomfort may resolve on its own, persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Seeking early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into chronic conditions.
Keeping Your Shoulders Healthy
Taking preventive steps may help you maintain shoulder health and prevent future pain:
Stay Active: Regular, balanced exercise helps to support joint stability and muscle strength.
Warm Up: Before physical activity, take a few minutes to warm up the shoulder muscles and joints.
Avoid Overuse: Take breaks from repetitive shoulder movements and avoid activities that aggravate pain.
Cool Down: After physical activity, take a few minutes to stretch to assist in cooling down the shoulder muscles and joints.
Shoulder pain can be frustrating and limiting, but understanding the root causes and seeking early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery and prevention. Whether due to an injury, repetitive strain, or a chronic condition, shoulder pain doesn’t have to hold you back. With the right treatment for you, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments, you may be able to regain mobility, reduce pain, and support the long-term health of your shoulders. Remember, if shoulder pain is affecting your daily life, consulting with a qualified osteopath or allied health professional is the first step towards relief and improved function.
If you are in need of support with should pain or injury, you can book an appointment with Georgia below. Alternatively, give us a call on 0425 876 929 to discuss your needs.
References:
Shoulder Pain and Common Shoulder Problems: The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Mitchell, C., Adebajo, A., Hay, E., & Carr, A. (2005). Shoulder pain: diagnosis and management in primary care. Bmj, 331(7525), 1124-1128.
Classification of Shoulder Pain. (2022, November 18). Physiopedia, . Retrieved 23:57, November 7, 2024 from
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