Shoulder pain
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How Does Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy is helpful for restricted joint mobility and decreased muscle strength in the same areas, both before and during recovery from surgeries. A physiotherapist helps find solutions for discomfort caused by sedentary work and other musculoskeletal issues.
If possible, bring your test results with you. Exercises are easier to perform when wearing comfortable sportswear.
Shoulder Pain – Causes, Diagnosis, and the Role of Physiotherapy
Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages and often interfering with daily activities, sleep, and work ability. There can be many different causes behind it — ranging from simple muscle strain to complex tendon injuries.

Common Causes and Diagnoses of Shoulder Pain:
- Subacromial Impingement Syndrome – tendons and bursa get “pinched” under the acromion
- Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy / Tear – damage or inflammation of the shoulder-stabilizing tendons
- Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) – thickening and stiffness of the joint capsule
- Shoulder Osteoarthritis – wearing down of joint cartilage, more common in older adults
- Biceps Tendinitis – inflammation of the biceps tendon
- Shoulder Instability or Dislocation – often occurs in athletes or after trauma
- Referred Pain from Neck or Upper Body (e.g., herniated disc) – can mimic shoulder problems
Sources:
Lewis J. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(19):1185–1191
Littlewood et al. Physiotherapy. 2013;99(2):107–116
Burbank KM et al. Am Fam Physician. 2008;77(4):453–460
How Is Shoulder Pain Diagnosed?
- Clinical examination – tests and range of motion assessment by a physiotherapist or doctor
- Imaging (if needed) – ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI
- Medical history and functional analysis – when the pain occurs, which movements provoke it
Important:
In most cases, a thorough physiotherapeutic assessment is sufficient to start effective treatment without imaging.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Treating Shoulder Pain
- Exercises – evidence-based treatment to strengthen rotator cuff muscles and restore mobility
- Manual Therapy – joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and release of fascial tension
- Motor Control – restoring proper muscle activation during daily movements
- Personalized Exercise Programs – based on your symptoms and functional goals
- Monitoring and Progress Assessment – managing recovery step by step
Sources:
Holmgren et al. BMJ. 2012;344:e787
Hanratty et al. Health Technol Assess. 2012;16(14):1–237
What Can the Client Expect?
- Reduction of pain and improvement of mobility
- Restoration of shoulder function for work, exercise, and daily activities
- Evidence-based and personalized treatment
- Guidance on work posture, training, and prevention
Our physiotherapists can help you:
If you suffer from shoulder pain — whether caused by a sports injury, overuse, or long-term stiffness — our physiotherapists will help identify the exact problem and develop an effective treatment and exercise plan. Save time and money by starting treatment with us, and if needed, we will refer you to an orthopedic consultation.
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About Us
Füsioteraapia Kliinik OÜ is a company established in 2011, whose specialists are recognised Estonian sports physiotherapists.
The clinic’s specialists help find solutions to various musculoskeletal system problems, whether it’s pain limiting daily activities or sports, decreased muscle performance, restricted joint mobility, or other issues.
In practice, the most common reasons for consulting a physiotherapist are muscle tension, pain in the lower back and neck area, as well as painful shoulder and knee joints.
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OÜ Füsioteraapia Kliinik
Registrikood: 12149635
Swedbank: EE082200221053152027
Operating Licence: L06512
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