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Condition

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, with rotator cuff–related shoulder pain (previously termed “impingement syndrome”) representing one of the most prevalent diagnoses in both active and general populations. Current evidence suggests that rather than a purely structural “pinching” phenomenon, symptoms are often driven by a combination of tendon overload, subacromial bursal irritation, and altered shoulder biomechanics. Patients typically report pain over the lateral shoulder or upper arm, often exacerbated by overhead activity, lifting, or lying on the affected side, alongside weakness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty with functional tasks such as dressing or reaching. This condition can affect a wide demographic but is particularly common in individuals aged 30–70, especially those engaged in repetitive overhead work, sports, or prolonged postural loading.
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A thorough, evidence-based assessment is essential to differentiate rotator cuff–related pain from other causes of shoulder dysfunction. At Core Body Clinic, this includes a detailed clinical history, objective testing of movement, strength, and function, and where appropriate, diagnostic imaging such as musculoskeletal ultrasound. Ultrasound imaging is supported in the literature as a reliable and accessible tool for visualising rotator cuff tendons, identifying tendinopathy, tears, or bursal involvement, and guiding treatment decisions, including image-guided injections when indicated. Importantly, imaging findings are always interpreted alongside clinical presentation, as structural changes do not always correlate with pain.

Management is guided by best available evidence, with exercise therapy forming the cornerstone of treatment. Progressive, individualised loading programmes aim to restore tendon capacity, improve strength, and optimise movement patterns. Manual therapy may be used adjunctively for pain modulation and mobility, while education around load management is key to long-term recovery. In cases of persistent or high levels of pain, corticosteroid injections may be considered to provide short-term relief and facilitate engagement in rehabilitation, although these are used judiciously in line with current clinical guidelines.

It is also important to recognise that not all shoulder pain arises from the rotator cuff. Conditions such as shoulder osteoarthritis and adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) present with distinct clinical patterns and require tailored management approaches. For more detailed information on these conditions and their treatment pathways, please refer to the relevant sections within our website.

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We routinely diagnose and treat shoulder pain. The causes of shoulder pain are many and a list below covers the most common:
  • Rotator cuff
  • Impingement
  • Rotator cuff tear
  • Sub acromial Bursitis
  • Calcific tendonitis
  • Sub acromial Bursitis
  • Calcific tendonitis
  • Dislocation
  • Instability - traumatic and non traumatic
  • AC joint arthritis
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • Osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint
Diagnosis is key and requires a thorough assessment