1 in 5 Australian have Shoulder Pain: Are you one of them?

The shoulder is a unique joint, in which it is made up of three bones, several ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The shoulder complex is distinctive, in which the joint has very little connections to the rest of the body. The joint has a non-existent bony socket, in which the shoulder can move in many different planes of movement. As the joint is the most mobile in the body, the eight muscles that secure or cause movement of the shoulder are critically important. Nearly six million Australians see a medical professional every year regarding a shoulder presentation, of which half are rotator cuff pathologies.

The World Health Organisation reports that 1 in 5 Australians have chronic shoulder pain. Hence shoulder problems are a common presentation to a physiotherapist, particularly in a private practice setting. Such a presentation can occur regardless of age, gender, other medical issues or the type of sport.

There are several common presentations, namely: rotator cuff sprains/tears, frozen shoulder, bursitis, impingement, labral (cartilage) tears and subluxations. If you suspect one of these, you should get the pathology confirmed by Robert and Jeff, in our Greenwood physiotherapy clinic and a management plan put in place.

The common misconception that people have is that often shoulder conditions require surgery. After a thorough assessment, specific stretches and/or strengthening exercises can be given. Such exercises might consist of shoulder blade strengthening work and assisting posture. Specific stretches may also be given to correct an overly forward position of the shoulder.

The cause of some shoulder pain is a referred pain. For example, a common presentation is often a neck issue is evident in which the pain is not felt in the neck region, but rather manifests in the shoulder complex.

Frequently as one ages, often osteoarthritis can develop within the shoulder complex. Although this can cause many unwanted symptoms, specific strengthening exercises, often with stretches, may assist.

It important to note these strengthening exercises and stretches can be performed in the comfort of your house. Often physiotherapists Robert and Jeff will give you a length of theraband, which is an elastic band that comes in various tensions, for gentle strengthening exercises. A demonstration of a rolled up towel or a foam roller is often shown for various stretches.

This is just general information, for a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis, phone (08) 9203 7771 or make an appointment with Robert and Jeff today.