Shoulder pain can be common, and it can be caused by several conditions including:

Rotator Cuff Problems: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint holding the joint in place. Injury to the rotator cuff can vary from mild tendon inflammation through to full thickness tears. Bursitis, calcific tendonitis, impingement syndrome also commonly occurs within this area. These conditions can cause pain in the shoulder or the upper arm, especially when lifting the arm or lying on it. Often this is due to over using the arm & shoulder during a sport or activity, or the result of a shoulder injury. Age can also play a part.

Frozen Shoulder or Adhesive Capsulitis: Is the painful and gradual stiffening of the shoulder capsule (the tissue that surrounds your shoulder joint) and the shoulder can become stiff and painful that it limits your ability to use your arm in everyday activities.

Osteoarthritis: The progressive wearing away of the cartilage of the joint, leading to the two bones of the joint rubbing together causing pain. People who have had previous trauma or shoulder surgery are most likely to develop osteoarthritis later in life. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, aching and sharp stabbing pains.

Acromioclavicular Joint Pain: Painful joint on the tip of the shoulder where the collarbone and shoulder blade join.

Shoulder Instability: Dislocation or excessive movement of the shoulder joint.

Referred Shoulder Pain: The pain is experienced in an area away from the actual injury or problem e.g . the pain in the shoulder is referred from the neck or upper back.

Osteopathic treatment is different in every individual. Shoulder problems are often complex and can take time to resolve. Assessing the cause of the pain and a diagnosis is the beginning of the treatment plan. Depending on your age, fitness and the diagnosis, your treatment may involve massage, articulation and stretching techniques to improve movement in your shoulder and reduce any related tight muscle and joint restriction in your neck through to your lower back. Specific strengthening and stretching exercises may be prescribed and evaluate your lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your shoulder problem. X-ray, scans or orthopaedic assessment may be required to make a diagnosis, and you may be referred to your GP for any further treatment if required.