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Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy NHS Lothian | Our Services
shoulder bw

Common Shoulder Conditions

Non traumatic shoulder pain (not associated with an obvious injury) is common and often has no obvious cause. Lots of factors can contribute to pain, including physical and emotional health, lifestyle factors, certain medical conditions, genetics and stress. Sometimes, there may be specific causes, presented below. This list is not exhaustive.

Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain

This is the most common type of shoulder pain. It can be caused by minor strains, lifestyle factors and certain medical conditions that affect the soft tissues in the body. It is also known as subacromial pain syndrome.

Information: Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain

Exercises: British Elbow & Shoulder Society

For more information visit NHS Inform

Calcific Tendinopathy

Sometimes calcium can build up in the rotator cuff tendons, causing rotator cuff related shoulder pain and restricted movement.

Information: Calcific Tendinopathy

Exercises: Shoulder muscle and joint exercises

Frozen Shoulder

This is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder.

Information: Frozen Shoulder

Exercises: British Elbow & Shoulder Society

For more information visit NHS inform

Acromioclavicular Joint (ACJ) Pain

There are 3 distinct problems that can cause pain in the little joint that connects your collarbone to the roof of your shoulder. Click on the links for more information.

ACJ Arthritis

ACJ Osteolysis

ACJ Injury

Shoulder Arthritis

This describes pain and stiffness that can occur as part of the natural aging process, though not everyone with age related changes will experience pain. Genetics, lifestyle factors and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of painful arthritis.

Shoulder & Elbow Arthritis

Jigsaw-E Arthritis leaflet

Non traumatic Shoulder Instability

This describes the sensation of a wobbly unstable shoulder that may feel like it comes out of place, in the absence of trauma or injury.

Atraumatic Instability

The advice on this page does not replace a medical opinion.   

Discuss your needs with a health professional if you have any concerns.