Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a physiotherapist โ and for good reason. Whether itโs from lifting at the gym, working at a desk, or sleeping awkwardly, shoulder pain can make even simple tasks like dressing, driving, or reaching overhead a challenge.
In this article, weโll unpack the most common causes of shoulder pain, how physiotherapy can help, and what the latest research says about effective treatment.
๐ช Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body โ but that mobility comes at the cost of stability.
Common shoulder issues treated at Focus For Life include:
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Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears
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Shoulder impingement
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Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
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Bursitis or inflammation
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Postural-related pain from prolonged desk work
Pain often develops gradually and is made worse by overhead movement, lifting, or sleeping on the affected side.
๐ง What the Research Says
๐น Exercise is the cornerstone of recovery.
According to a 2022 review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, exercise-based rehabilitation is the most effective first-line treatment for most shoulder conditions โ often as effective as surgery for chronic tendinopathies when done correctly.
๐น Manual therapy can speed up short-term relief.
A meta-analysis published in Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (2020) found that combining manual therapy (e.g. joint mobilisation, soft tissue release) with exercise can help improve pain and range of motion faster than exercise alone.
๐น Education matters.
Studies also show that patients who understand their condition and are guided to stay active recover quicker and have less recurrence of pain.
๐๏ธ How Physiotherapy Helps Shoulder Pain
At Focus for Life, we take an evidence-based approach to restore shoulder function safely and effectively.
Your physio will:
1. Assess your shoulder strength, posture, and movement patterns
2. Identify the underlying cause of your pain (not just the symptoms)
3. Treat with a combination of:
– Targeted strengthening and mobility exercises
– Hands-on techniques (joint mobilisation, massage, dry needling)
– Postural retraining and ergonomic advice
– Home exercise programs tailored to your goals
This approach not only relieves pain โ it builds long-term shoulder resilience and prevents re-injury.
๐ฟ When to See a Physiotherapist
Book an appointment if you experience:
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Shoulder pain lasting more than a few days
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Pain when reaching overhead or behind your back
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Weakness, stiffness, or clicking in the shoulder
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Difficulty sleeping on one side
Early assessment can prevent minor irritation from becoming a chronic problem.
โ Key Takeaway
Physiotherapy remains the most effective and evidence-supported way to manage shoulder pain โ especially when it combines exercise, education, and manual therapy.
If shoulder pain is holding you back, our team at Focus for Life Physiotherapy in Belmore can help you move better, rebuild strength, and get back to doing what you love โ pain-free.