Shoulder pain is an extremely common complaint that has many causes. Because we use our arms for so many common activities. It is a very flexible joint but unfortunately sacrifices stability because of this.
Examples of shoulder disorders include:
· frozen shoulder – a painful condition that reduces normal movement in the joint and can sometimes prevent movement in the shoulder altogether
· rotator cuff disorders – the rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to keep it stable
· shoulder instability – where the shoulder is unstable and has an unusually large range of movement (hypermobility)
· acromioclavicular joint disorders – conditions that affect the acromioclavicular joint, which is the joint at the top of the shoulder
Shoulder disorders are fairly common. About 30% of adults are affected by these types of conditions at any one time. Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff disorders are most common in middle aged and older people. Shoulder instability and acromioclavicular joint disorders tend to affect younger people, particularly men who play certain sports. For example:
· sports that involve repetitive shoulder movements, such as overarm bowling or throwing
· contact sports, such as rugby, where you may injure or fall on your shoulder
