Shoulder Pain: Understanding the Condition and How We Can Help

Shoulder pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages and activity levels. It can arise from everyday wear and tear, sports injuries, or underlying conditions affecting the shoulder joint. At Spectrum Physiotherapy, we specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder joint pain to restore mobility, relieve discomfort, and help you return to your regular activities pain-free.

What is Shoulder Pain?

Your shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in your body, allowing you to lift, rotate, and reach freely. However, this flexibility also makes it vulnerable to injuries and instability. Shoulder pain may result from irritation, inflammation, or damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, or the joint itself.

Some of the most common shoulder conditions include:

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Damage or strain to the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder.

Shoulder Impingement

When the tendons of the rotator cuff are compressed during shoulder movements.

Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursae — the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Stiffness and pain caused by thickening of the shoulder capsule, leading to restricted movement.

Arthritis or Degeneration

Wear and tear of the shoulder joint leading to pain and stiffness.

Common Causes of Shoulder Joint Pain

Shoulder joint pain can develop for several reasons, including:

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain

The symptoms of shoulder pain vary depending on the cause but often include:
  • Pain or tenderness around the shoulder joint

  • Limited range of motion or stiffness

  • Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm

  • Clicking, catching, or grinding sensations

  • Pain that worsens at night or during specific movements

If you’re experiencing persistent pain or limited movement, it’s important to seek professional assessment to prevent further damage.

Frozen Shoulders Treatments

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a particularly challenging form of shoulder pain. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight, severely restricting motion.

At Spectrum Physiotherapy, our frozen shoulders treatments are focused on reducing pain, restoring range of motion, and preventing stiffness. Treatments may include:

  • Manual therapy to gently mobilize the joint

  • Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises

  • Heat therapy to improve circulation and reduce stiffness

  • Education on posture and ergonomics to support recovery

  • Home exercise plans to maintain flexibility and function

With consistent care, patients can gradually regain shoulder mobility and reduce discomfort.

How Spectrum Physiotherapy Can Help

At Spectrum Physiotherapy, our experienced team provides comprehensive care for shoulder joint pain through evidence-based physiotherapy techniques.

Comprehensive Assessment

Identifying the root cause of pain through detailed physical evaluation and movement analysis.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Combining manual therapy, exercise therapy, and electrotherapy to reduce pain and promote healing.

Rehabilitation and Prevention

Guiding patients through recovery while teaching techniques to prevent recurrence.

Preventing Shoulder Pain

To maintain healthy shoulder function and prevent recurring pain:
Get Relief from Shoulder Pain in Calgary

Shoulder pain can interfere with work, sleep, and your daily activities – but you don’t have to live with it. At Spectrum Physiotherapy, we provide expert care to relieve shoulder joint pain and offer effective frozen shoulders treatments tailored to your needs.

Take the first step toward lasting relief – contact Spectrum Physiotherapy in Calgary today to schedule your appointment!