Most everyday activities involve use of our arms and shoulders and in order to allow you normal use, the shoulder joint is designed to be very flexible. It is therefore very important that the muscles supporting the shoulder remain strong and flexible enough to prevent it from becoming inflamed and painful. Common conditions of the shoulder, such as tendinitis, frozen shoulder, osteoarthritis, bursitis and muscle strain can be successfully treated by osteopaths using a combination of hands on treatment and exercises.

Frozen shoulder or ‘adhesive capsulitis is a condition which affects shoulder joint mobility with debilitating pain and stiffness. It primarily effects people aged between 40 and 60 and classically develops over a period of several weeks or months after a trauma to the joint. If left untreated, recovery can be slow and symptoms can last for two to three years. Diagnosis is relatively simple, usually from patient history and clinical examination. X-ray or MRI are rarely necessary to confirm its presence.

The aim of treatment for all shoulder complaints is to regain full pain-free mobility of the shoulder joint as soon as possible.

We use gentle joint manipulation and mobilisation, deep soft tissue and massage techniques to the muscles and tendons supporting the shoulder. Acupuncture, ultrasound and/or taping can also be used where appropriate. A graduated exercise programme will be given to help restore the lost movement and lifestyle advice to help prevent a recurrence in symptoms.

In certain cases which do not respond to manipulative treatment, keyhole surgery may be indicated and we will happily refer you back to your GP and then if necessary, on to the most appropriate specialist for this condition.