Overview
About Shoulder Pain Treatment
Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints. It can arise from multiple sources including rotator cuff problems, shoulder impingement, frozen shoulder, arthritis, instability, acromioclavicular joint problems, biceps tendon issues, or referred pain from the cervical spine. Accurate diagnosis through clinical examination and appropriate imaging is essential to direct the most effective treatment.
Key Benefits
Comprehensive clinical assessment to identify the exact source of shoulder pain
Targeted treatment based on the specific diagnosis — not a generic approach
Non-surgical options including physiotherapy and injections as first line
Arthroscopic surgery available for structural problems not responding to conservative care
Long-term pain relief and full restoration of shoulder function
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of shoulder pain?
The most common causes are rotator cuff tendinitis or tear, shoulder impingement syndrome, frozen shoulder, AC joint arthritis, biceps tendinopathy, shoulder instability, and referred pain from the cervical spine (neck).
How is shoulder pain diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a detailed history, clinical examination with specific tests for each structure (rotator cuff tests, impingement tests, instability tests), X-rays, and MRI for soft tissue assessment.
Can shoulder pain be treated without surgery?
The vast majority of shoulder pain conditions respond well to conservative treatment including physiotherapy, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted steroid or PRP injections. Surgery is reserved for structural problems not responding to conservative care.
Why does my shoulder hurt more at night?
Night pain in the shoulder is characteristic of rotator cuff problems and frozen shoulder. Lying on the affected side compresses the inflamed tissue. This is an important diagnostic clue and warrants early evaluation.
How long will it take for my shoulder pain to resolve?
This depends on the cause. Mild impingement or tendinitis resolves in 4–8 weeks with treatment. Frozen shoulder takes 3–6 months. Rotator cuff repair takes 6–12 months. Your surgeon will give a specific timeline based on diagnosis.