What is Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can range from a dull ache that disrupts sleep to a sharp restriction that prevents you from reaching overhead or behind your back. Whether your pain developed after a sporting injury, built up gradually, or appeared without an obvious cause, accurate diagnosis is the essential first step.
At Lower Limb Clinic, our clinicians specialise in musculoskeletal assessment of the shoulder complex, including the glenohumeral joint, rotator cuff, acromioclavicular joint, and the thoracic spine and scapula that support it. With in-house diagnostic ultrasound available, we can often visualise soft tissue injuries at your first appointment.
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Common Symptoms
- Pain reaching overhead or behind your back
- Night pain that disrupts sleep
- Weakness when lifting or carrying
- Catching, clicking, or grinding sensations
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Pain at the front, side, or top of the shoulder
- Difficulty with daily tasks like dressing or driving
Common Causes
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tear
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Subacromial impingement
- Acromioclavicular joint dysfunction
- Shoulder instability or labral injury
- Biceps tendinopathy
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Thoracic spine and postural dysfunction
- Bursitis
How We Treat Shoulder Pain
Our treatment approach to shoulder pain begins with a thorough clinical assessment to establish an accurate diagnosis. We use a combination of manual therapy techniques and progressive loading exercises, tailored to your specific condition and stage of recovery. Our in-house diagnostic ultrasound allows us to visualise rotator cuff tears, bursitis, and other soft tissue pathology without the wait for external imaging.
MSK Assessment
Manual Therapy
Rehabilitation Programme
Shockwave Therapy
Ready to get shoulder pain treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Shoulder pain persists for more than two weeks
- Pain is preventing you from sleeping
- You cannot lift your arm above shoulder height
- The shoulder feels unstable or gives way
- Pain is worsening despite rest
- You have had a traumatic injury to the shoulder
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Shoulder Pain at Lower Limb Clinic.
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast