Common Causes of Shoulder Pain – Physiotherapy Support in Exeter
Shoulder pain is one of the most common problems we see at Quay Kinetics Physio in Exeter. Whether it develops gradually or comes on suddenly, it can make even simple tasks — like reaching overhead, fastening a seatbelt, or lying comfortably at night — feel impossible.
Because the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, it relies on a delicate balance of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. When any of these structures become irritated or injured, pain can quickly follow.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of shoulder pain, what symptoms to look out for, and how physiotherapy in Exeter can help you move freely again.
1. Rotator Cuff Problems
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that stabilise and control shoulder movement. Injuries can range from mild inflammation to partial or full tears.
Symptoms include:
Pain lifting or reaching overhead
Weakness or heaviness in the arm
Disturbed sleep when lying on the affected side
2. Shoulder Impingement
Impingement occurs when tendons or soft tissues become “pinched” under the bony arch of the shoulder.
Symptoms include:
Sharp or catching pain lifting your arm
Pain with repetitive overhead activities (e.g., swimming, decorating)
3. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder causes progressive stiffness and pain, often without clear injury. It can last months to years without treatment.
Symptoms include:
Restricted range of motion (can’t reach behind your back or overhead)
Painful “freezing” stage followed by long-term stiffness
4. Shoulder Instability
If your shoulder feels loose or slips out of place easily, you may have instability. This is common in younger people, contact athletes, and those with hypermobility.
Symptoms include:
Frequent “giving way” or subluxations
Pain with overhead or sudden movements
5. Labral Tears
The labrum is the cartilage ring that deepens the shoulder socket. Tears can follow trauma (e.g., falls, sports injuries) or develop from repetitive strain.
Symptoms include:
Clicking, catching, or locking sensations
Pain with overhead activities
Feeling of the shoulder “slipping”
6. Tendonitis and Bursitis
Tendonitis = inflammation of the tendons.
Bursitis = irritation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs).
Symptoms include:
Painful arc when raising the arm
Localised tenderness
Stiffness after inactivity
7. Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder
Osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage that cushions the joint deteriorates.
Symptoms include:
Stiffness, aching pain, and reduced mobility
Grinding, clicking, or cracking sounds
Pain worse after activity
8. Overuse & Repetitive Strain
Many of us spend long hours sitting at desks, climbing, swimming, or throwing — all of which can overload the shoulder. Over time, this leads to fatigue, inflammation, and pain.
Symptoms include:
Gradual onset of discomfort
Pain worse at the end of the day or after repetitive activity
Weakness or heaviness in the arm
When to Seek Help for Shoulder Pain
You don’t have to “wait and see” if shoulder pain will improve. If it:
Lasts more than a few weeks
Wakes you at night
Limits daily activities
Or keeps coming back
…it’s time to seek professional advice.
At Quay Kinetics Physio in Exeter, our Chartered Physiotherapists can assess your shoulder, identify the root cause, and create a tailored plan to get you moving freely again. Treatment may include:
Hands-on therapy to reduce stiffness and pain
Specific exercises for strength and mobility
Taping, acupuncture, or adjuncts for pain relief
Education to prevent recurrence
Take the First Step
Shoulder pain can be frustrating, but you don’t have to put up with it. With expert help, most people see real improvements within weeks.
👉 Book your appointment with Quay Kinetics Physio in Exeter today
Or call us to discuss how physiotherapy can help you.
Useful websites;
https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/shoulder-pain/