Shoulder Pain: The Most Common Causes (and What to Do)
A clear overview of the most common shoulder problems we see — and how each one is typically treated.
The usual suspects
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy — gradual onset, painful arc with reaching, weakness with elevation. Loading-based rehab is the foundation.
- Subacromial pain — pain with overhead and across-body motions. Often responds to scapular and shoulder-girdle strengthening.
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) — significant stiffness with pain, often without a clear injury. Phases over 12–24 months; treatment shortens phases.
- Rotator cuff tears — partial or full thickness. Many do well with rehab; surgical decision-making depends on tear size, function, age, and goals.
- AC joint sprains — direct trauma, point tenderness over the joint. Most resolve with structured rehab.
- Instability and labral issues — often in younger, active populations. Strength and motor-control programs are central.
What rehab typically includes
Range-of-motion work, manual therapy, modalities for early symptom relief, progressive strengthening (the cornerstone of shoulder rehab), and education on dose and posture. Surgical cases follow protocol-aligned plans.
When to seek care
Persistent pain past 2–3 weeks, weakness, sleep disruption from shoulder pain, or recent trauma with significant bruising or deformity.
Related care
General physiotherapy for pain, injury, mobility, and function.
Recovery and performance-focused rehab for athletes and active people.
Personalized rehab after orthopedic and other surgeries to restore strength, mobility, and function.
Rotator cuff, impingement, frozen shoulder, and post-surgical shoulder care.
Structured rehab following orthopedic and other surgeries.
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