Understanding Shoulder Pain
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, which makes it vulnerable to injury and wear. Pain may arise from the tendons, ligaments, joint surfaces or surrounding structures.
Common Symptoms
- Pain when lifting the arm or lying on it
- Stiffness and loss of movement
- Weakness or a feeling of instability
- Clicking or catching sensations
Common Causes
- Rotator cuff tears and tendinopathy
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Shoulder instability and dislocation
- Shoulder arthritis
How Assessment Works
A specialist assessment combines history, examination and — where needed — ultrasound, X-ray or MRI to identify the structure involved and guide treatment.
Treatment Options
- Physiotherapy and activity modification
- Ultrasound-guided injections
- PRP and regenerative therapies (where appropriate)
- Shoulder arthroscopy or surgery when indicated
When to Seek Specialist Care
If shoulder pain persists beyond a couple of weeks, limits movement or sleep, follows an injury, or comes with weakness or instability, a specialist assessment is advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can shoulder pain be treated without surgery?
In many cases yes. Physiotherapy, injections and activity modification are effective for a range of shoulder problems. Surgery is considered when these are insufficient.
Why does my shoulder hurt at night?
Night pain is common with rotator cuff problems and inflammation, often due to pressure on the affected structures when lying on the shoulder. A specialist assessment can identify the cause.