Shoulder pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and limitation of movement. The shoulder’s complexity—comprising muscles, joints, ligaments, and a joint capsule—means many factors can contribute to pain.
Causes of shoulder pain may include:
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Rotator cuff injuries such as tendon tears, tendonitis
- Trauma (e.g., dislocation, fractures)
- Referred pain from the neck
Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
Common signs of shoulder dysfunction may include:
- Aching or sharp pain in the shoulder and upper arm.
- Difficulty lifting your arm in any direction.
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion.
- Pain while sleeping on the affected side.
How Osteopathy May Help Shoulder Pain
Your osteopath will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the root cause of your pain. Often, poor biomechanics in other areas such as the spine or pelvis, may contribute to the onset of shoulder issues. Therefore osteopathic treatment will address not only the shoulder, but may incorporate treatment of these related areas. Osteopathic care will offer hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and relieve tension.
Sometimes, additional tests such as x-rays or an MRI may be needed to aid in diagnosis.
Treatment may involve soft tissue therapy, joint mobilization, and exercises to help strengthen the shoulder region. A tailored exercise plan aims to support long term recovery.
Considering Osteopathy for Shoulder Pain?
At Lower Plenty Osteopathy, our osteopaths have experience in treating shoulder pain. If shoulder pain is impacting your life, give us a call at 94395596 or book online to explore how osteopathy may help you.