Shoulder issues comprise a significant portion of the conditions addressed at The Joint Pain Clinic.

Common conditions seen include Frozen Shoulder, Subacromial Impingement Syndrome and Rotator Cuff Problems.

Frozen shoulder primarily affects women, typically between the ages of 40 and 60, leading to severe pain and significant limitations in shoulder movement. Subacromial pain syndrome refers to conditions affecting the rotator cuff, characterised by pain, particularly during overhead movements and activities like putting on a jacket.

Effective treatment for these conditions often involves a combination of appropriate rehabilitation techniques and injections to reduce inflammation and pain, facilitating ongoing range of motion and strengthening exercises.

Other prevalent conditions treated at our clinic include osteoarthritis of the ACJ (acromioclavicular joint) and the ball and socket joint, more commonly observed in older individuals.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain following Diagnostic Ultrasound Scan:

  • Cortisone (steroid) injection for impingement syndrome

  • Cortisone (steroid) injection for Rotator cuff tendinopathy and injury

  • Cortisone (steroid) injection for impingement syndrome

  • Hydro-dilatation for Frozen Shoulder

Shoulder pain can significantly impact daily activities, work, and sports, ranging from minor discomfort to severe agony. It is crucial to accurately identify and treat shoulder pain promptly to restore normal function.

Common Shoulder Pain Conditions Treated at The Joint Pain Clinics:

  • Frozen Shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): Characterized by pain and stiffness that progressively worsens, leading to difficulty in movement due to the thickening and tightening of the shoulder capsule.

  • Rotator Cuff Tear and Tendinopathy: A tear in the group of tendons stabilizing the shoulder joint, often occurring gradually over time due to repetitive motions or suddenly due to trauma.

  • Osteoarthritis: Degeneration or wear-down of the cartilage covering the shoulder joint's bone surfaces.

  • Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursitis: Severe shoulder pain exacerbated by movement, often alleviated with early intervention.

  • Rehabilitation after Shoulder Dislocation: Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder function and preventing re-injury following a dislocation.

  • Rehabilitation after Shoulder Replacement: Physiotherapy aids in returning patients to their previous activity levels post-shoulder replacement surgery.

Treatment Approaches for Shoulder Pain:

  • Rest or modified activities

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)

  • Physiotherapy exercises to improve flexibility, movement, and strength

  • Heat or ice application (under clinician guidance)

  • Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections for enhanced accuracy to alleviate pain and improve range of motion

  • Diagnostic ultrasound scan to identify the cause of pain

  • Shoulder manipulation under anesthesia to loosen shoulder tissue

  • Surgery in extreme cases when alternative therapies fail

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach for shoulder pain.