Shoulder PainSymptoms
Understand when shoulder pain needs urgent care and how physiotherapy improves mobility, strength and function.
What is shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain can arise from muscles, tendons, joints, or nerves. Many people improve with targeted exercises, manual therapy and activity modification.
Seek urgent care if shoulder pain is severe, sudden, occurs with chest pain, numbness/weakness in the arm, or significant swelling.
Who it affects and typical treatment
Who it affects
- People with repetitive overhead activities
- Individuals with poor posture or muscle imbalances
- Athletes and manual workers
Typical treatment plan
- Manual therapy and joint mobilisation
- Strengthening and stretching exercises
- Posture correction and activity modification
Common causes
Rotator cuff injury
Tears or inflammation of shoulder stabilising muscles.
Frozen shoulder
Stiffness and pain from capsule inflammation.
Impingement
Compression of tendons during arm movements.
Arthritis
Joint degeneration causing pain and stiffness.
Postural issues
Forward head posture and rounded shoulders.
Common symptoms
- Pain with reaching, lifting or overhead activities
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Night pain, especially when lying on the affected side
- Weakness and difficulty with daily activities
Related symptoms: Neck pain, Elbow pain
How a physiotherapist can help
- Manual therapy and joint mobilisation techniques
- Targeted strengthening and stretching programmes
- Posture correction and movement pattern retraining
Effective treatments
Manual therapy
- Joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques
- Pain relief and improved mobility
Therapeutic exercise
- Rotator cuff strengthening and scapular stability
- Range of motion and flexibility work
At‑home management
Pain relief
- Ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours
- Avoid sleeping on the affected shoulder
- Use a pillow to support the arm
Gentle movement
- Pendulum exercises and gentle stretches
- Avoid overhead activities initially
- Gradually increase range of motion
Posture awareness
- Keep shoulders back and down
- Avoid prolonged forward head posture
- Take regular breaks from desk work
Stop any exercise that increases pain significantly.
What to expect in physiotherapy
1) Assessment
- Range of motion, strength and pain assessment
- Agree goals (daily function, sport, work)
2) Plan
- Manual therapy and targeted exercises
- Posture correction and activity modification
3) Progress
- Advance exercises and return to activities
- Prevention strategies and maintenance
Most notice improvements in 4–8 weeks with consistent treatment.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.