I have a sore shoulder
The shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a great range of motion. It is made up of three bones: the shoulder blade (scapula), the collarbone (clavicle), and the upper arm bone (humerus). These bones are supported by a network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which together provide stability and movement. The main shoulder joint, the glenohumeral joint, functions as a ball and socket joint, allowing you to move your arm in different directions.
Symptoms of shoulder pain
Dull pain around the shoulder joint;
Pain when moving the arm;
Sloping shoulders;
Constant pain with the slightest movement.
What could be wrong?
Several problems can occur in the shoulder, including:
Rotator cuff injuries:
These are tears or inflammations in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder.
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis):
This is a painful stiffening of the joint, often without any apparent cause.
Shoulder instability:
This can occur if the shoulder dislocates or tends to dislocate.
Shoulder impingement:
This occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become pinched in the shoulder.
Arthritis:
This is an inflammation of the joints, which can lead to pain and stiffness.
Bursitis:
This is an inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction) in the shoulder.
Calcification:
This is a process in which calcium salts accumulate in body tissues, leading to hardening or petrification of these tissues.
Muscle or tendon tear:
This can occur with repetitive overuse, acute trauma, poor technique during physical movements and poor quality muscle or tendon.
Your path to recovery
Below you will find treatments that can play a role in this:
Diagnosis and evaluation
The physical therapist will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of the shoulder pain.
Exercise therapy
Focused on improving the range of motion, strength and stability of the shoulder. Specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder. Exercise therapy is often the main treatment for shoulder complaints. Other therapies are almost always secondary to exercise therapy.
Manual therapy
This may include mobilization and manipulation techniques to improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Pain management
Pain can be effectively managed using techniques such as trigger point massage, tape techniques, shockwave and dry needling.
Education and prevention
The physiotherapist can provide advice on posture correction, ergonomics and preventive measures to prevent recurrence of the complaints.
Rehabilitation programs
For post-operative patients or serious injuries, a specific rehabilitation program can be designed to promote a safe and effective return to daily activities.
Do you want to work on your complaints?
With the right treatment and guidance, a physiotherapist can help restore your shoulder function, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life. Contact us for a personal consultation and discover how we can support you in your recovery.
“A shoulder complaint can significantly limit you in your daily life. I would be happy to work with you to determine the source of the complaint and what is needed to get your shoulder strong and flexible again.”
– Tom, Physiotherapist
Treatment methods for shoulder complaints
Below you will find a selection of commonly used treatment methods.



