RehabifyCommon causes
- Frozen shoulder, where the joint lining becomes inflamed and tight. It often goes through a painful phase, a stiff phase and a slow thawing phase
- Rotator cuff problems, such as tendon irritation or tears, often pain when lifting the arm
- Pain coming from the neck, felt in the shoulder or arm
- Arthritis of the shoulder or the joint at the top of the shoulder
- Less common causes such as dislocation, fracture or pain referred from the heart or chest, which the doctor checks for
Who should see a doctor
Signs to get checked
- Shoulder pain lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks
- Pain that wakes you at night or stops you lying on that side
- Shoulder that is getting stiffer, so you cannot reach behind your back or above your head
- Shoulder pain with diabetes
What happens at Rehabify
- 01
History
When it started, what movements hurt, your work, sleep and other health problems such as diabetes.
- 02
Examination
Range of movement, strength of the rotator cuff, neck checks and specific shoulder tests.
- 03
Scans if needed
Ultrasound or X-ray may be advised. MRI only if it will change your treatment.
- 04
Your plan
Exercise and medicines first. An image-guided injection or nerve block may be offered to ease pain so that stretching can work.
- 05
Rehab
A stage-by-stage programme with a physiotherapist and at home.
The doctor decides the right tests and treatment for you after examining you.
Before and after your visit
How to prepare
- Bring scans, reports and a list of medicines, including diabetes medicines
- Wear a loose top or vest so the shoulder can be examined
- Note which daily tasks are hard: dressing, combing hair, reaching a shelf
After your visit
You leave with a written plan, home exercises and a review date. You can send questions on WhatsApp between visits.
When to get help urgently
Common questions
How long does frozen shoulder last?
It often lasts from many months to over a year. Treatment aims to ease pain and keep as much movement as possible while it settles.
Should I keep moving a frozen shoulder?
Yes, within comfort. Gentle stretching helps. Forcing painful movement during the early painful phase can make it worse, so the exercises change with each stage.
Does an injection help frozen shoulder?
A steroid injection into the joint can reduce pain, especially in the early phase, and make exercise easier. The doctor will advise whether it is suitable for you.
Is diabetes linked to frozen shoulder?
Yes. Frozen shoulder is more common in people with diabetes. Good sugar control is part of care.
Can shoulder pain come from the neck?
Yes. Neck problems can cause pain in the shoulder and arm. The doctor checks the neck as part of the examination.
Sources
- [1]
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) clinical practice guideline. Management of rotator cuff injuries
- [2]
British Elbow and Shoulder Society (BESS) and Royal College of Surgeons patient care pathway for frozen shoulder
- [3]
NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary. Shoulder pain
This page is for general education and does not replace a consultation. The right plan depends on your examination.