Rotator cuff tendonitis
Inflammation of a muscle tendon in the shoulder. It can be very painful but often responds well to treatment. Occasionally it is linked to calcific deposits or bony changes in the joint; in those cases referral for an injection or, rarely, surgery may be needed.
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
Inflammation of the shoulder capsule with pain and restriction of the soft tissues around it. Movement gradually reduces (freezing), eventually almost stops (frozen), then slowly returns (thawing). Left alone the whole process averages 18 months to 2 years, with treatment it can be sped up and sometimes even stopped in its tracks.
Whether you have rotator cuff tendonitis or frozen shoulder, it is better to start treatment early.
Dry needling for the shoulder
Dry needling is part of a normal treatment session at no extra charge (when appropriate and you are happy to have it). A 2014 study found it effective for reducing pain and increasing range of motion in frozen shoulder.
Common questions
What is the difference between shoulder pain and neck pain?
Pain from the shoulder joint itself is treated here; pain around the top of the shoulders and between the shoulder blades usually comes from the neck. They often occur together, and your examination will separate them.