Introduction
Shoulder pain is a common complaint, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. While mild discomfort from overuse or strain often settles with rest, persistent or severe shoulder pain may signal a more complex issue that requires expert assessment.
So how do you know when it’s time to see a specialist?
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
- Rotator cuff injuries – tears or inflammation in the group of muscles stabilising the shoulder joint.
- Shoulder impingement – when tendons are pinched during movement.
- Arthritis – including osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis.
- Frozen shoulder – a painful condition with progressive stiffness.
- Shoulder instability – often due to a dislocation or repetitive strain.
When to Seek Specialist Advice
- Pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Loss of movement or strength
- Night pain or difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- History of injury or trauma
- Symptoms affecting your ability to work, drive or exercise
Seeing an orthopaedic specialist like Mr Richard Pennington can help diagnose the cause of your pain and offer a personalised treatment plan — whether surgical or non-surgical.
What to Expect Your consultation may include a physical examination, imaging (like X-rays or MRI), and a detailed discussion of treatment options. Early diagnosis and expert care can significantly improve outcomes and help you return to daily life with less pain.