Shoulder pain: physiotherapy in Le Grand-Saconnex
he main shoulder joint connects the shoulder blade to the head of the humerus, the upper arm bone. The shoulder allows movement in many directions and is one of the most mobile joints in the body. Good coordination between the joints, muscles and surrounding tissues is therefore essential for it to function properly.
The rotator cuff plays an important role in shoulder stability and smooth movement. It consists of four muscles whose tendons attach to the humerus.
The bursae, small fluid-filled sacs, also help the shoulder function by allowing tissues to glide smoothly. Irritation or injury affecting the tendons, muscles or bursae can cause pain and make certain movements difficult.
Every shoulder problem has its own characteristics. At our physiotherapy practice in Le Grand-Saconnex, we assess your symptoms to tailor your care.
Symptoms of shoulder conditions
Pain is the most common symptom of a shoulder problem. It may persist or come and go. Symptoms can include:
- Shoulder pain, sometimes accompanied by pain towards the neck, shoulder blade or arm ;
- Stiffness or difficulty moving the arm and shoulder ;
- Throbbing pain ;
- Clicking in or around the shoulder, sometimes without pain ;
- Pain when raising your arm, for example when getting dressed.
- A fracture around the shoulder ;
- Trauma ;
- An injury or tear affecting a tendon or another soft tissue ;
- Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis ;
- Shoulder dislocation ;
- Fibromyalgia ;
- Muscle tension between the neck and shoulders ;
- Shoulder osteoarthritis ;
- Injury/ruptures of the soft tissue
- Shoulder instability ;
- Subacromial pain ;
- Bursitis or tendinopathy, often referred to as tendinitis;
- Irritation caused by excessive strain on muscles and tendons.
Causes of shoulder conditions
Overuse can contribute to shoulder pain, particularly during sport, repetitive movements or heavy lifting. Muscles and tendons may become sensitive or irritated.
Pain may also be associated with:
Consultation and treatment
Your first appointment begins with a discussion and a physiotherapy assessment to understand your symptoms, evaluate your movements and establish your goals. Shoulder physiotherapy is tailored to your situation. It may include:
- Information and advice about your condition and treatment plan ;
- Fasciatherapy or therapeutic soft tissue massage to address pain and tension ;
- Manual therapy techniques to improve joint mobility ;
- Therapeutic exercises to develop strength, stability and muscle function, and gradually restore your range of movement ;
- Fascia and stretching exercises to reduce or prevent stiffness of related muscles.