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Understanding Shoulder Pain When Lifting Overhead: Causes and How Physiotherapy Can Help

Understanding Shoulder Pain When Lifting Overhead: Causes and How Physiotherapy Can Help

Shoulder pain when lifting your arms overhead can be a frustrating and limiting problem, whether you’re an athlete, a gym enthusiast, or simply trying to carry out everyday tasks.

You don’t have to struggle through this problem!! There are solutions…

This article will explore the common causes of overhead shoulder pain and explain how physiotherapy can help you return to optimal function, pain-free.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain with Overhead Movements

The shoulder is an incredibly complex joint with a wide range of motion, supported by muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. Pain during overhead activities often arises when these structures become irritated, inflamed, or dysfunctional. Here are some common reasons this might happen:

  1. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
    Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff get pinched between the bones in the shoulder, especially during overhead motions. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion. It’s particularly common in athletes who engage in repetitive overhead movements, such as swimmers, tennis players, and weightlifters.
  2. Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy or Tears
    The rotator cuff comprises four muscles that stabilize the shoulder and assist in lifting and rotating the arm. Overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden trauma can lead to tendinopathy (degeneration or inflammation of the tendons) or even tears, which may cause pain and weakness during overhead activities.
  3. Shoulder Instability
    Athletes in throwing sports or those who perform frequent overhead actions may develop shoulder instability. This condition occurs when the ligaments and capsule around the shoulder joint become too loose, leading to subluxations or dislocations. Instability can cause discomfort and a feeling of the shoulder “giving out”.
  4. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
    This condition involves stiffness and pain caused by thickened and inflamed shoulder joint tissues. Although it’s more common in the general population, it can significantly impact athletes and active individuals, limiting their ability to move the arm overhead.
  5. Labral Tears
    The labrum is a cartilage ring that deepens the socket of the shoulder joint, providing stability. Repetitive overhead motions, falls, or heavy lifting can lead to labral tears, causing pain, clicking, or catching sensations.
  6. Poor Biomechanics or Posture
    Overhead pain isn’t always due to an obvious injury. Poor posture, muscle imbalances, or faulty movement patterns can place undue stress on the shoulder structures, leading to discomfort over time.

What to Expect in a Physiotherapy Assessment

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, your physiotherapy journey begins with a detailed and comprehensive assessment to uncover the root cause of your symptoms.
Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Subjective Assessment
    Your Physio will take the time to understand your condition by asking about:
    o    The onset, duration, and nature of your pain.
    o    Activities or movements that worsen or relieve your symptoms.
    o    Your sports, exercise routines, or occupational tasks.
    o    Any history of previous injuries or medical conditions.
  2. Objective Measures
    This involves a physical examination to collect measurable data and identify dysfunctions:
    o    Range of Motion (ROM): Assessing how far you can move your shoulder in various directions.
    o    Strength Testing: Evaluating the strength of your rotator cuff and other supporting muscles.
    o    Specific Tests for Structures: Performing diagnostic tests to pinpoint issues such as impingement, labral tears, or instability.
    o    Functional Strength: Observing your ability to perform tasks that replicate your sports or daily activities.
    o    Baseline Measures: Documenting key findings to track your progress over time.

This comprehensive assessment ensures that your treatment plan is personalised and targeted, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes of your shoulder pain.

Individualised Treatment Plan:

Once the cause of your pain is identified, your Physio will create a tailored plan to address your needs. Treatment typically includes:

  • Manual Therapy:
    Hands-on techniques, such as joint mobilizations, soft tissue release, and stretching, can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.
  • Exercise Therapy:
    Specific exercises are prescribed to restore strength, improve shoulder stability, and enhance flexibility.
    For example:
    Strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and scapular muscles to support the shoulder joint.
    Mobility exercises to help achieve full range of motion
    Gradual progression of functional movements to help you return to your sport or daily activities.
    Stability work to build confidence and strength when weightbearing through the shoulder
  • Education and Advice:
    You’ll receive guidance on activity modifications, posture correction, and proper techniques for overhead movements to prevent future issues.

Rehabilitation and Prevention

The goal of physiotherapy isn’t just to relieve your current pain but to prevent recurrence.

By addressing muscle imbalances, improving movement patterns, and building strength, your physio will help you achieve long-term shoulder health and keep you doing the things you want to do!!

Take the First Step Towards Recovery

Shoulder pain doesn’t have to hold you back. Whether you’re an athlete aiming to return to peak performance or someone simply looking to enjoy a pain-free life, physiotherapy can provide the tools and expertise you need to recover and thrive.

If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, make an appointment at either our Burleigh clinic or Broadbeach clinic. Get back to doing the activities you love, whether it’s excelling in your sport, enjoying a workout, or simply reaching for the top shelf without discomfort.

Written by – Conal Watterson – Physiotherapist

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