Common Causes of Shoulder Pain: Part 1: Subacromial Pain Syndrome including Rotator Cuff Pain

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There are many causes of shoulder pain, but a small number of conditions account for most cases of shoulder pain in the general public. This blog post will highlight one of the most common causes: Subacromial Pain Syndrome.

What is Subacromial Pain Syndrome?

Subacromial pain syndrome is a common source of shoulder discomfort, particularly in adults. This condition arises from the subacromial space in the shoulder, which houses the rotator cuff tendons. You might recognise terms like rotator cuff tendinopathy or impingement syndrome—both fall under the umbrella of subacromial pain syndrome! The condition can develop gradually due to overuse, such as repetitive overhead movements. In many people, small changes in posture and muscle imbalances over time mean that these overhead movements put the area and tendons under pressure. In others, the natural bony anatomy of the shoulder will increase their risk of developing this painful syndrome. It can also occur suddenly following an injury.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pain in the front or outer part of your shoulder or arm.
  • Pain when lying on the affected side, especially at night.
  • Difficulty lifting your arm away from your body.
  • A clicking or catching sensation during shoulder movement.

How Can Atlas Help?

At Atlas Sports & Exercise Medicine, we can guide your recovery based on your goals and priorities. Here's how we approach treatment:

1. Personalised Exercise Programme

We provide a tailored exercise plan designed to improve movement and strengthen your shoulder. You’ll receive:

  • In-person demonstrations of the exercises.
  • Written, video, and verbal instructions so you can confidently perform them at home.
  • A clear plan for progressive improvement over time.

2. Short-Term Pain Relief

If needed, we may recommend a brief course of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation, making it easier to engage with your rehabilitation programme.

3. Advanced Treatment Options

For more persistent or severe cases, we might discuss injection therapy to target the area of discomfort directly. This is sometimes necessary to enable people to start their rehabilitation programme.

At Atlas, our goal is to help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence in your shoulder. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, contact us to start your personalised treatment plan.