The shoulder joint is an extremely flexible joint which allows us to move the arm in all directions. This wide range of joint movement however means the shoulder is very susceptible to injury.
Some common shoulder injuries are:
Rotator cuff tear / injuries – the rotator cuff is made up of four muscles which attach to the shoulder joint. Injury or repetitive use of the arm can lead to a tear in one or more of these muscles. Early Physiotherapy assessment and treatment can help avoid surgery. Some tears however may need surgical repair. In these cases, patients are referred by the surgeon to a Physiotherapist to provide post surgical rehabilitation.
Rotator cuff impingement – this occurs when one of the rotator cuff tendons is pinched in the shoulder (subacromial space) causing inflammation, pain and weakness. This can then lead to a tear in the rotator cuff if the problem is not treated. Physiotherapy is essential in the management of Rotator Cuff Impingement.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – Frozen Shoulder is an extremely painful and debilitating condition characterized by pain and stiffness of the shoulder. The condition can last for up to 2 years but is eventually self limiting. Fortunately once cured it almost never comes back on the same shoulder. It often comes on for seemingly no reason at all but may follow a traumatic incident, shoulder surgery, or even breast re-construction. The onset of this condition is usually gradual. It effects mainly the over 40′s and mostly women (60%). Physiotherapy is recommended by shoulder specialists as an important part of management.
Arthritis – this generally occurs due to wear and tear and effects both the bony and muscular structures of the shoulder.
Our Physios are trained to accurately assess the shoulder and to treat your pain effectively with both hands-on techniques and a carefully designed home strengthening and stretching programme. Ultrasound, electrical stimulation, laser and heat may also be used to enhance healing and provide some pain relief. Shoulder problems are best treated early to prevent them becoming chronic, however longstanding problems can also be treated effectively by accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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