Knowledge Hub • Conditions • Shoulder Pain
The Complete Guide to Shoulder Pain
Understanding Shoulder Pain: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Quick Answer
Shoulder pain may be caused by muscle strain, tendon injuries, bursitis, rotator cuff problems, joint irritation or pain referred from the neck. Most cases improve with conservative treatment, including rehabilitation exercises, manual therapy and activity modification. Persistent pain or significant weakness should be professionally assessed.
Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. Whether it develops after a sporting injury, lifting something heavy or gradually over time, shoulder pain can make everyday tasks such as reaching overhead, dressing or sleeping uncomfortable.
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, but that flexibility also makes it more susceptible to injury. Pain may originate from the shoulder itself, the neck or surrounding muscles, making an accurate diagnosis essential.
At Bornman Chiropractic, Dr Jaco Bornman provides comprehensive assessments to determine the cause of shoulder pain and develop personalised treatment plans that support recovery, improve movement and help prevent future injuries.
Understanding the Shoulder
The shoulder is made up of several joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments that work together to provide an exceptional range of motion.
Its main structures include:
- The shoulder blade (scapula)
- The collarbone (clavicle)
- The upper arm bone (humerus)
- The rotator cuff muscles
- Tendons and ligaments
- Bursa, which reduce friction around the joint
Because many structures work together, shoulder pain can have a variety of causes.
Common Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition but may include:
- Pain when lifting the arm
- Pain reaching behind your back
- Pain at night, especially when lying on the affected side
- Stiffness
- Weakness
- Clicking or catching sensations
- Reduced range of motion
- Pain radiating into the upper arm
If pain travels below the elbow or is associated with numbness or tingling, the neck may also need to be assessed.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Overuse, repetitive overhead activity or age-related degeneration can lead to irritation or tears.
Shoulder Impingement
This occurs when tendons become compressed during shoulder movement, often causing pain when lifting the arm.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the shoulder bursa can make movement painful and restrict normal function.
Frozen Shoulder
Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition causes progressive pain and stiffness, leading to a significant reduction in shoulder movement.
Arthritis
Wear and tear of the shoulder joint may cause pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.
Muscle Strain
Overuse, lifting or sporting activities may strain the muscles surrounding the shoulder.
Referred Pain from the Neck
Neck conditions can sometimes produce pain that feels like it originates in the shoulder. This is why a comprehensive examination is important.
Risk Factors
You may be more likely to develop shoulder pain if you:
- Participate in overhead sports
- Lift heavy objects regularly
- Work above shoulder height
- Spend long hours at a computer
- Have poor posture
- Have diabetes (a risk factor for frozen shoulder)
- Have previously injured your shoulder
How Is Shoulder Pain Diagnosed?
Assessment begins with understanding your symptoms, medical history and daily activities.
Your examination may include:
- Shoulder movement testing
- Muscle strength assessment
- Rotator cuff tests
- Joint mobility assessment
- Neck examination
- Functional movement assessment
- Neurological testing where appropriate
If necessary, imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI may be recommended.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your shoulder pain.
Your personalised management plan may include:
- Joint mobilisation
- Manual therapy where appropriate
- Soft tissue therapy
- Rehabilitation exercises
- Rotator cuff strengthening
- Postural correction
- Activity modification
- Ergonomic advice
The goal is to restore comfortable movement, improve function and support long-term recovery.
Other Treatment Options
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may also include:
- Physiotherapy
- Home exercise programmes
- Medication
- Corticosteroid injections
- Surgical referral in selected cases
Most shoulder conditions improve with conservative care.
Preventing Shoulder Pain
Simple strategies can help reduce your risk of future shoulder problems:
- Strengthen the rotator cuff and upper back
- Warm up before exercise
- Improve posture
- Avoid repetitive overhead strain where possible
- Take regular breaks during desk work
- Progress training gradually
Frequently Asked Questions
Pain during lifting is commonly associated with rotator cuff problems, shoulder impingement or bursitis, although other conditions may also be responsible.
Yes. Pain referred from the cervical spine may be felt in the shoulder or upper arm.
Gentle, appropriate exercises are often beneficial, but they should match your diagnosis and stage of recovery.
Recovery varies depending on the cause. Mild strains may settle within a few weeks, while more complex conditions may take several months.
Seek prompt assessment if pain is severe, follows trauma, causes significant weakness or limits your ability to use the arm.
Key Takeaways
Shoulder pain has many possible causes, ranging from muscle strain and rotator cuff injuries to referred pain from the neck. Identifying the source of your symptoms is essential for effective treatment. Most people recover well with conservative management and a structured rehabilitation programme.
When Should You Book an Assessment?
If shoulder pain is preventing you from working, exercising or sleeping comfortably, a professional assessment can help determine the underlying cause.
At Bornman Chiropractic, Dr Jaco Bornman provides thorough assessments and personalised treatment plans for patients experiencing shoulder pain. Following a detailed examination, you'll receive clear advice on your diagnosis, treatment options and the most appropriate path towards recovery.