Shoulder Pain – Causes and Solutions
- Gregor Čadež
- Jun 7
- 5 min read
Shoulder pain is a common issue that can limit movement, affect daily activities, and reduce quality of life. To understand shoulder pain, it is important to look beyond the symptoms and consider the body as a whole.
Shoulder pain is a frequent complaint that can limit movement, reduce performance in everyday activities, and affect quality of life.
It often develops gradually, without a single clear injury, and may be associated with factors such as overload, poor movement patterns, stress, or decreased physical activity.
That is why it is important to understand the broader context of the problem rather than focusing solely on the symptoms.
WHAT CAUSES SHOULDER PAIN?
The shoulder is a complex joint that allows a high degree of mobility. Because of this, it can become vulnerable when the body is unable to effectively manage movement demands.
Common contributing factors include:
excessive loading (e.g., sports or physical work)
insufficient physical activity
reduced mobility
muscular imbalances
influences from the cervical spine
increased sensitivity of the nervous system
👉 More about the broader context: Movement and health - the role of movement in pain
SHOULDER PAIN IS NOT ALWAYS LOCAL
Although shoulder pain is felt in the shoulder region, the source of the problem is not always located within the shoulder joint itself.
Pain may be influenced by:
the cervical spine
other body regions
movement patterns
the nervous system
This is why focusing exclusively on the shoulder does not always lead to long-term improvement.
If shoulder pain keeps returning or treatment only provides temporary relief, it may be worth considering a broader assessment.
👉 More about this: Body pain – a holistic approach
If shoulder pain recurs or does not improve, it is often because the cause is not adequately treated.
👉 More about the approach: IMP method
WHY DOES SHOULDER PAIN KEEP COMING BACK?
Recurrent shoulder pain is common when:
treatment focuses only on symptoms
movement patterns are not addressed
excessive loading continues without appropriate adaptation
contributing factors remain unidentified
The body is rarely a collection of isolated structures. Understanding the broader context often plays an important role in achieving long-term improvement.
👉 More about this: Why does pain keep coming back
THE ROLE OF MOVEMENT
Movement plays a crucial role in shoulder health.
It can help:
improve function
increase mobility
enhance load tolerance
At the same time, it is important that movement is:
appropriately prescribed
gradually progressed
tailored to the individual's condition
👉 More about: Why Movement Is the Foundation of Health
THE IMPACT OF STRESS
Stress can significantly influence shoulder pain.
It may contribute to:
increased muscle tension
heightened pain sensitivity
reduced load tolerance
Therefore, it is important to consider not only the musculoskeletal system, but also the role of the nervous system.
👉 More about: Stress and body
HOW TO APPROACH THE PROBLEM?
Shoulder pain often requires a broader perspective, which may include:
understanding the root causes
analysing movement patterns
adapting daily loading
supporting shoulder function
In some cases, the most effective approach combines professional assessment with an individually tailored treatment plan.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK HELP?
It is advisable to seek professional guidance if:
shoulder pain persists for several weeks
pain is recurring
movement becomes limited
pain affects your daily activities
Shoulder pain should not always be ignored. The earlier the contributing factors are identified, the greater the opportunity for meaningful improvement.
Regardless of location, the goal remains the same – to understand the underlying cause of the problem and create an individualised treatment plan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help with shoulder pain?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help with various forms of shoulder pain, whether they are related to overload, reduced mobility, cervical spine dysfunction, or other factors that affect shoulder function.
When should I see a physiotherapist for shoulder pain?
If shoulder pain persists for several weeks, keeps returning, or limits your daily activities, work, or sports participation, a professional assessment is recommended.
Why does my shoulder hurt without an injury?
Shoulder pain can develop even without a clear injury. It is often associated with repetitive loading, reduced physical conditioning, influences from the cervical spine, or altered movement patterns.
Is the source of shoulder pain always the shoulder joint?
No. Shoulder pain may also be influenced by the cervical spine, shoulder blade function, trunk muscles, or other structures involved in upper limb movement.
Can shoulder pain be related to the cervical spine?
Yes. Shoulder function is closely connected to the cervical spine, thoracic spine, and shoulder blade. This is why assessment often includes more than just the area where pain is felt.
How does IMA Method approach shoulder pain?
IMA Method is based on a comprehensive assessment of the individual, identifying factors that contribute to the problem and creating a personalised treatment plan. The goal is not only to reduce pain, but also to improve function and decrease the likelihood of recurrence.
Can osteopathy help with shoulder pain?
In some cases, an osteopathic approach may complement physiotherapy. It considers the relationship between the shoulder, cervical spine, thoracic spine, breathing patterns, and other factors that may influence movement and pain.
What causes shoulder pain when lifting the arm?
Pain during arm elevation may be associated with reduced mobility, tissue overload, altered movement coordination, or other factors affecting shoulder function.
Can shoulder pain radiate into the arm?
Yes. Shoulder pain may spread into the upper arm, elbow, or hand. In some cases, cervical spine dysfunction or irritation of neural structures may also be involved.
How is shoulder pain treated?
Treatment typically includes a detailed consultation, clinical assessment, evaluation of movement and function, and the development of an individualised plan involving treatment, movement, and exercise.
Do you provide shoulder pain treatment in Ljubljana and Ptuj?
Yes. Treatments are available in Ljubljana, Ptuj, and by arrangement as home visits. Regardless of location, the goal remains the same – to understand the cause of the problem and create an individualised treatment plan.
Is home physiotherapy suitable for shoulder pain?
Yes. Home physiotherapy may be appropriate for individuals who have difficulty attending a clinic because of pain, limited mobility, recovery after injury, or other circumstances. Treatment is tailored to the individual's needs and goals.
What should I do if shoulder pain keeps coming back?
When shoulder pain repeatedly returns, it is important to identify the factors contributing to the problem. Long-term success usually requires more than temporary symptom relief.
Expert View
About the Author
Gregor Čadež is a physiotherapist and founder of fizion, focused on chronic pain, headaches and functional disorders through an integrative clinical approach.
His work combines movement analysis, manual therapy, dry needling, osteopathic and chiropractic principles to better understand the underlying causes of symptoms.
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