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Shoulder Pain

Published on: Thursday 20th July 2017

Shoulder Pain is common and can be caused by a number of conditions. These conditions include:

Rotator cuff problem  -  pain in the shoulder or upper arm, particularly when lifting the arm, lying on it or using the sore muscles. It is often the result of repetitive overuse of the arm and shoulder during a sport or activity or the result of a shoulder injury.  Age can also play a part.

Acromioclavicular joint pain  -  painful joint on the tip of the shoulder where the collarbone and shoulder blade join

Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis  - is the painful and gradual stiffening of the shoulder capsule (the tissue that surrounds your shoulder joint) and the shoulder can often become so stiff and painful that it limits your ability to use your arm in everyday activities.

Referred shoulder pain - pain is experienced in an area away from the actual injury or problem e.g. pain in shoulder which is usually referred from the neck or upper back

Osteoarthritis – progressive wearing away of the cartilage of the joint leading to the two bones of the joint rubbing together causing pain. Patients who have had previous trauma or shoulder surgery are most likely to develop osteoarthritis in later life. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, aching and sharp, stabbing pains.

Shoulder instability – dislocation or excessive movement of the shoulder joint.

How can an Osteopath help?

Shoulder problems are often complex and can take a long time to resolve. An osteopath will work with you to try and understand the cause of your shoulder problem.

Depending on your age, fitness and the diagnosis we may use a variety of massage, rhythmical articulation and stretching techniques to try and improve the movement in your shoulder and reduce tension in any tight muscles.

Treatment is different in every individual and we may massage and loosen the joints of the neck and upper and mid back and shoulder blade area and sometimes the low back and hips if we feel they are contributing to your shoulder pain.

We may offer specific strengthening or loosening exercises to the shoulder and offer advice on posture and look at how you use your shoulder and any lifestyle habits that may be contributing to your shoulder problem.

Occasionally X-rays, scans or other tests may be required to make a diagnosis and we may refer you to your GP for any further treatment.

 

I saw Yan-Kei Man following a musculoskeletal injury, which she helped me treat. Impressed with Yan-Kei's professionalism and attentiveness, I have since introduced my young kids (3 and 5 years old) to osteopathy. In hindsight, a wise decision given that a scooter accident had left my 5 year old with a slight postural dysfunction. I thoroughly recommend Yan-Kei for her specialisation and impeccable manners.

Vina

I was very pleased to have assistance from Holly Jordan when I had a very painful lower back recently. I found her diagnosis very reassuring; and the treatment recommended helpful. It was good that plenty of time - over an hour - was allowed for my first initial appointment, as it was good to feel I wasn't rushed and was listened to. I am back to normal health now but would return again, if I needed to. Many thanks!

Mark - Colliers Wood

I am just e-mailing you Stephen to let you know that my baby daughter’s tight tummy calmed down considerably after your treatment so thank you very much.

G. SW19

Just before Christmas, my back ‘went’. By ‘went’ I mean I could barely walk and had constant pain in my lower back and leg. I was off work and spent most of the time lying on the floor. I was treated by Stephen and Simon, both of whom have a professional but very calm manner – ideal for anyone who’s in a lot of pain. They identified muscle and sciatic nerve damage. They obviously knew what they were doing because the pain gradually started to ease, such that by the beginning of March I was back on the treadmill in the gym. Would I use SW19Osteopaths again? Definitely. Only this time I’d go sooner.

Sam B, SW19

Our 10 week old baby was so tetchy and uncomfortable. He was crying all the time and writhing about seemingly with ongoing pain due to his bubbling tummy. Stephen Beaver held him gently and I don't know what he did, but after a few treatments there are no more issues, and he is a settled happy chap. Stephen also noticed the baby's head was tuning always to one side, and this has also been resolved with treatment. Great result. Thanks so much

Jude, Kingston

I want to thank you Stephen for a great treatment last week. You freed up my whole spine which has been wonderful. You also addressed the specific problem area which is great and has given me my confidence back to return my circuit training. I feel so much better. Thank you again.

Wendy, Morden

Following a breech caesarean birth, Max developed a tendency to turn his head to one side, and he developed a visibly flattened side of head. We were fortunate enough to know Steve's expertise in paediatric osteopathy and it was clear to see how passionate and informed he was regarding treatments and possible outcomes. Throughout the non-invasive treatment we felt totally at ease with Steve, as did Max who fell asleep! I would highly recommend Steve. We are extremely grateful for his time, care and attention to detail.

Andreas, Bex and Max. Raynes Park

After suffering with severe pain in the left hand side of my back, I decided to seek advice from Simon. I had previously sought medical advice, but the condition had not improved. On the first consultation Simon took detailed notes and then suggested that I could be suffering from Spondylosis. He examined my back and spine and found that this was the case. He is a very caring and conscientious practitioner. I have been treated by Simon on a regular basis and he has made me feel much better and with his treatment and advice, the pain has decreased considerably. I would thoroughly recommend his service.

Penny, Colliers Wood

I rate Stephen very highly and would recommend him to anyone.

Jonathan M

I saw Simon regularly to help me with symptoms of multiple slipped discs. Cannot recommend enough - as a first time Osteo patient I found Simon to be professional, helpful and friendly. Everything was done at my own pace and fully explained so I knew what it all meant. Many thanks again!

Oliver, Colliers Wood