Shoulder Conditions
Glenohumeral Joint
The Shoulder Joint
Shoulder pain often develops from repetitive movements, poor posture, rotator cuff injuries, or acute trauma, and can significantly limit your ability to perform everyday tasks comfortably. At Movement Perfected, we provide expert shoulder pain physiotherapy in Moorgate and shoulder pain physiotherapy in Marylebone, helping you address the underlying cause of your symptoms rather than just masking the pain. Whether your shoulder issue is linked to gym training, desk-based work, sports injuries, or wear and tear, our experienced physiotherapists deliver tailored, evidence-based treatment plans designed to reduce pain, restore strength and mobility, and prevent recurrence.
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Common Shoulder Conditions:
• Rotator cuff tendinopathy
• Rotator Cuff Tears (Partial or Degenerative)
• Subacromial pain syndrome
• Shoulder impingement-type pain
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Shoulder instability
• Labral injury
• AC joint irritation
• Biceps tendinopathy
• Post-surgical shoulder rehabilitation
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Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a common cause of shoulder pain, resulting from irritation or overload of the rotator cuff tendons. It typically develops gradually and may worsen with lifting, reaching overhead, or sleeping on the affected side. Pain ranges from mild discomfort to more limiting symptoms. Physiotherapy aims to improve shoulder strength and restore comfortable movement. Treatment gradually reintroduces daily activities, supporting recovery at your own pace.
Rotator Cuff Tears (Partial or Degenerative)
Partial or degenerative rotator cuff tears are common, particularly with age or prolonged shoulder use, and symptoms may include pain, weakness, or difficulty lifting the arm. Many people manage these tears successfully without surgery, with research showing that over 70% improve with targeted physiotherapy exercises within six months. Rotator cuff–related shoulder pain refers to discomfort from structures at the front or side of the shoulder, often during activities such as lifting the arm or working overhead. Modern understanding suggests this pain is usually linked to how the shoulder tissues are loaded and moved rather than tissues being “pinched” as once described with impingement. Physiotherapy focuses on improving shoulder movement, strength, and coordination to reduce pain and restore normal function.
Shoulder Impingement-Type Pain
Impingement-type shoulder pain involves sensitivity of the structures around the shoulder during specific movements, especially overhead tasks. Pain may be sharp, catching, or aching, and is often position-specific. Physiotherapy addresses underlying movement and loading issues to help the shoulder move more comfortably and confidently. As you read this, gently explore how your shoulder feels in different positions. Begin your exercises with the angles or movements that feel most comfortable today, staying within your current comfort zone.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is marked by progressive pain and stiffness, resulting in reduced shoulder movement. Symptoms usually develop gradually and may persist for many months. Pain often worsens at night and with reaching. Physiotherapy focuses on managing pain, maintaining movement when possible, and guiding recovery through each stage of the condition.
Shoulder Instability
Shoulder instability occurs when the joint moves more than usual or feels less steady during certain movements. It may follow a dislocation, repeated subluxations, or result from poor muscular control. Symptoms include pain, weakness, or apprehension with specific activities. Shoulder stability is highly trainable, and most people notice improved steadiness within weeks of guided physiotherapy. Physiotherapy aims to enhance stability, strength, and control, helping you regain confidence in your shoulder and support safe movement.
Labral Injury
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilise the shoulder joint. Labral injuries can cause deep shoulder pain, clicking, catching, or a feeling of instability. These injuries may occur with trauma, repetitive overhead activity, or sport. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring shoulder strength, stability, and movement patterns to reduce symptoms and improve function. Rehabilitation is tailored toward helping you get back to everyday tasks such as throwing a ball, reaching overhead, or pushing up from a chair, so you can regain trust and confidence in your shoulder doing the activities that matter most to you.
AC Joint Irritation
AC joint irritation affects the small joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Pain is usually localised and may worsen with lifting, cross-body movements, or lying on the affected side. Physiotherapy aims to reduce joint irritation, improve shoulder mechanics, and support a return to pain-free activity.
Biceps Tendinopathy
Biceps tendinopathy is irritation of the biceps tendon at the front of the shoulder. Pain is typically felt at the front and may worsen with lifting, pulling, or overhead activity. Physiotherapy aims to reduce tendon overload, improve strength, and gradually reintroduce activity.
Post-Surgical Shoulder Rehabilitation
Post-surgical shoulder rehabilitation supports recovery after procedures such as rotator cuff repair, labral surgery, or shoulder stabilisation. Rehabilitation is structured and progressive, focusing on restoring movement, strength, and function while protecting healing tissues. Physiotherapy guides safe recovery and helps achieve the best long-term outcome.
Progress is marked by clear milestones to help you stay motivated during rehabilitation:
– Early stage: Regain gentle movement and manage pain, such as being able to lift a cup or reach the tabletop comfortably.
– Middle stage: Improve strength and flexibility to reach your head, dress yourself, or perform light daily tasks with greater ease.
– Late stage: Focus on returning to more demanding activities, such as lifting heavier items, returning to sport, or resuming work tasks.
These gradual steps help you track progress and stay focused on achievable goals throughout your recovery. Book a Physiotherapy appointment.