Osteopathy for shoulder pain
Shoulder pain is a widespread issue affecting individuals across various age groups and activity levels. Studies show that nearly 70% of people will experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives. This discomfort can impact daily activities, work, and overall quality of life.
Research has found that risk factors for shoulder pain include: altered shoulder kinematics associated with capsular tightness, rotator cuff and scapular muscle dysfunction, overuse due to sustained intensive work or poor posture (Dunning et al., 2021). Early intervention and comprehensive care are essential for effective management.
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Common causes of shoulder pain
Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or strains in the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder can lead to significant pain and limited mobility.
Tendonitis: Inflammation of the shoulder tendons, often due to overuse, can cause persistent discomfort.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction) can lead to pain and swelling in the shoulder joint.
Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis can cause degeneration of the shoulder joint, resulting in pain and stiffness.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, limiting movement.
Injuries: Acute injuries from falls, sports, or accidents can lead to fractures or dislocations.
Common symptoms for shoulder pain
Individuals experiencing shoulder pain may notice a variety of symptoms, including:
Persistent or sharp pain in the shoulder area
Limited range of motion and stiffness
Pain that radiates into the arm or neck
Swelling or tenderness around the joint
Difficulty lifting objects or reaching overhead
A clicking or popping sensation during movement
3 Osteopathic tips for shoulder pain
You will need to be patient when treating shoulder pain as they often take a long time to settle. Research has found that 40-50% of presenting shoulder pain will report pain lasting 6-12 months (van der Windt et al., 2019).
It is vital to pinpoint causative or aggravation of your shoulder pain and to avoid these activities. Your osteopath will work with you to identify and modify these tasks.
Stiffness or lack of strength in your ribcage, thoracic spine and scapular can influence your shoulder pain. Therefore it is important treatment and rehab takes these into consideration..
Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to treating shoulder pain by addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes. Treatment may include:
Manual Therapy: Osteopathic manipulation techniques help improve mobility, reduce tension, and alleviate pain in the shoulder and surrounding areas.
Exercise Rehabilitation: Customized exercise programs strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve flexibility, supporting recovery and preventing future issues.
Postural Assessment: Evaluating posture and biomechanics can help identify contributing factors to shoulder pain, allowing for targeted interventions.
Lifestyle Guidance: Osteopaths provide advice on ergonomic adjustments and activity modifications to prevent strain and promote overall shoulder health.
If you’re suffering from shoulder pain, our clinic is here to help. Our skilled osteopaths will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan aimed at relieving pain and restoring function. Don’t let shoulder pain limit your daily activities— Book online today to schedule an appointment!
