Shoulder
The shoulder is a very complex structure and shouldn’t be looked at as just the shoulder joint. The shoulder complex includes the ball and socket (Glenohumeral) joint, the scapula (shoulder blade) and its joint with the rib cage, as well as the Clavicle (collar bone) and its attachments to the body.
Problems associated with the shoulder can occur in the structures such as muscles, ligaments and joints at any of these locations, as well as degenerative changes such as Osteoarthritis (OA) but can also originate in the neck.
If you have suffered a minor acute injury such as a sprain or strain, then it is likely this can be treated at home and settle by itself. The leaflet below can help with this type of problem.
Acute Shoulder Pain/Injury Leaflet
If your problem doesn’t settle within a few weeks with the above information and advice, then a self referral to ourselves (Hyperlink to self referral form) would be advised. While you are waiting for us to contact you with an appointment, we would encourage you to try the exercise plans below as in a lot of cases these can be helpful.
Shoulder Exercises – Level 1
Shoulder Exercises – Level 2
Shoulder Exercises – Level 3
If you experience any of the following however, it would be advisable to seek a medical opinion, either your GP or a visit to the A&E department:
- After a sudden and/or high impact injury, or if you suspect a dislocation or fracture.
- If the pain is severe or the shoulder is hot, red or very swollen
- If you have tingling or numbness in the arm or hand.
Below are some information leaflets for more specific shoulder conditions that you may have already been diagnosed with:
Frozen Shoulder Leaflet - In Progress
Rotator Cuff Related Pain Leaflet
Deltoid Training Program for Large Cuff Tears - In Progress