Demystifying Your Shoulder Pain

There are various structures in the shoulder that can cause pain (ligaments, tendons, capsule, muscles, etc.), so it is crucial to properly identify the source of the problem in order to address it as quickly as possible.

When a painful shoulder frequently locks, gets stuck, or cracks, it may be a sign of hypermobility, instability, or shoulder impingement syndrome. Often, muscle imbalance is the underlying cause of such issues, with certain muscles being too weak and others too tight. Therefore, it is important for your physiotherapist to teach you a personalized exercise program that includes exercises for muscle stabilization, strengthening, and flexibility. This way, you can increase the dynamic stability of your shoulder and minimize the sensations of impingement.

However, if the pain in your shoulder has gradually developed with a progressive loss of mobility that even affects your ability to sleep, you may be experiencing a frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. In this case, there is a tightening of the capsule (the tissue surrounding your joint), leading to significant joint stiffness. Through various approaches such as manual therapy, muscle release techniques, pain-relieving modalities, and a proper exercise program to promote mobility, your physiotherapist can help minimize your symptoms and optimize your mobility.

Certain repetitive movements and poor postural habits can also cause tissue changes in your tendons, resulting in a “tendinopathy,” formerly known as tendonitis. Therefore, it is essential for your physiotherapist or occupational therapist to review your work techniques and postural habits with you in order to treat the source of your problem and help you protect your tendons.

Regardless of what is affecting your shoulder, do not hesitate to consult our team. Our physiotherapists can guide you, provide treatment, or refer you to another professional as needed.