What Causes Shoulder Pain and How Can It Be Treated?
- Published on
- Kurt Johnson
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Understanding Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a common issue that affects people across various professions and lifestyles. Whether you’re an office worker experiencing posture-related discomfort or an athlete recovering from an injury, shoulder pain treatment in London can provide effective relief. According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, shoulder pain accounts for 16% of all musculoskeletal complaints, making it one of the most prevalent conditions treated by physiotherapists.
This article will explore the common causes of shoulder pain, the different types of shoulder pain, and the most effective treatment options available to help restore mobility and alleviate discomfort.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain: Injuries, Overuse, Arthritis, and Poor Posture
1. Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries are one of the leading causes of pain, particularly among athletes and individuals engaged in physically demanding jobs. Common injuries include:
- Rotator Cuff Tears – Damage to the group of muscles and tendons stabilising the shoulder.
- Shoulder Dislocations – Occurs when the humeral head pops out of the socket.
- Labral Tears – Damage to the cartilage surrounding the socket of the shoulder joint.
- Fractures – Breaks in the clavicle, humerus, or scapula.
2. Overuse and Repetitive Strain
Many professionals, especially those working at desks or performing repetitive overhead movements, suffer from overuse injuries. Conditions such as:
- Tendinitis – Inflammation of the shoulder tendons due to repetitive movements.
- Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa sacs, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Impingement Syndrome – Occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are compressed during arm movements.
3. Arthritis and Degenerative Conditions
As people age, degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to chronic shoulder pain. Studies show that arthritis affects 1 in 5 people over 45 in the UK, leading to stiffness, reduced range of motion, and discomfort.
4. Poor Posture and Muscular Imbalances
Prolonged desk work, hunching over a laptop, and improper ergonomics can cause postural misalignment, leading to:
- Muscle tightness and imbalances
- Weak scapular stabilisers
- Chronic tension in the neck and upper back
The Different Types of Shoulder Pain: Acute vs Chronic
1. Acute Shoulder Pain
Acute shoulder pain typically results from trauma or sudden injury, such as falls, collisions, or sports-related incidents. Symptoms include:
- Immediate sharp pain
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty moving the shoulder
2. Chronic Shoulder Pain
Chronic shoulder pain develops over time due to repetitive strain, poor posture, or underlying medical conditions. Common chronic pain conditions include:
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – Gradual stiffness and loss of motion in the joint.
- Chronic Tendinitis – Persistent inflammation in the tendons leading to long-term discomfort.
- Postural Dysfunction – Poor sitting or standing habits causing continuous strain.
How Shoulder Pain Treatment in London Can Address Specific Conditions
Seeking expert shoulder pain physiotherapy in London can significantly accelerate recovery. At One Body LDN, our specialists use a multidisciplinary approach tailored to your specific condition.
1. Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Mobilisation
- Helps reduce muscle tightness and improve joint mobility.
- Techniques include deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy.
2. Strengthening and Mobility Exercises
- Restores shoulder stability and flexibility.
- Targets rotator cuff and scapular muscles to correct imbalances.
3. Postural Correction and Ergonomic Advice
- Adjusting workstations and seating positions to prevent pain recurrence.
- Strengthening postural stabilisers to maintain long-term relief.
4. Advanced Therapies (Shockwave Therapy & Dry Needling)
- Shockwave Therapy stimulates tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
- Dry Needling helps release trigger points and muscle spasms.
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Physiotherapy Treatment Pathways and Expected Recovery Timelines
The recovery timeline for shoulder pain physiotherapy in London varies based on the severity of the condition:
Condition | Estimated Recovery Time |
Acute muscle strain | 2-4 weeks |
Rotator cuff tendinitis | 6-8 weeks |
Frozen shoulder | 4-6 months |
Post-surgical rehabilitation | 3-6 months |
Studies published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicate that structured physiotherapy can reduce shoulder pain by up to 70% within 6 weeks.
Book a Physiotherapy Consultation for Shoulder Pain Treatment in London
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, seeking early treatment can prevent long-term complications. At One Body LDN, our award-winning shoulder pain specialists in London provide tailored treatment plans to help you recover quickly and effectively.
📅 Book your physiotherapy session today or schedule a free assessment with our experts.
Shoulder Pain Treatment FAQs
What is the most common cause of shoulder pain?
The most common causes include rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, tendinitis, and impingement syndrome.
How long does physiotherapy take to relieve shoulder pain?
Most patients see significant improvements within 4-6 weeks, but recovery varies based on severity.
Can physiotherapy prevent the need for shoulder surgery?
Yes! Studies show that early physiotherapy intervention reduces the need for surgery by 40-50%.
Does private health insurance cover shoulder physiotherapy?
Yes, we accept Bupa, AXA PPP, Cigna, WPA, Healix, and other major insurers.
When should I seek treatment for shoulder pain?
If pain persists for more than 2 weeks, restricts movement, or worsens over time, seeking a professional physiotherapy assessment is recommended.
(Disclaimer: The information in this post is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for specific guidance on diagnosis and treatment.)
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