Common Shoulder Injuries: Causes, Symptoms & How Motion Lab Can Help

The shoulder is one of the most mobile—and vulnerable—joints in the human body. Whether you're an athlete, an office worker, or somewhere in between, shoulder pain can significantly limit your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy daily life.

At Motion Lab, we specialise in diagnosing and treating common shoulder injuries through expert physiotherapy and hands-on rehabilitation tailored to your needs.

Why Is the Shoulder Prone to Injury?

The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint supported by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. While this design allows for a wide range of motion, it also makes the joint less stable and more susceptible to injury—especially from overuse, poor posture, or trauma.

5 Most Common Shoulder Injuries

1. Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Tears can occur gradually due to wear and tear, or suddenly from heavy lifting or a fall.

Symptoms:

• Dull ache deep in the shoulder

• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm

• Pain that worsens at night

2. Shoulder Impingement

This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff get pinched during shoulder movements, causing inflammation and pain.

Symptoms:

• Sharp pain when lifting the arm overhead

• Pain when reaching behind your back

• Limited shoulder mobility

3. Dislocated Shoulder

A dislocated shoulder happens when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket, often due to a fall or sports injury.

Symptoms:

• Intense pain and visible deformity

• Inability to move the shoulder

• Swelling and bruising

4. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

This condition involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often developing gradually and worsening over time.

Symptoms:

• Limited range of motion

• Pain that worsens at night

• Stiffness lasting months if untreated

5. Shoulder Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction) can cause pain and limit movement.

Symptoms:

• Tenderness on the outer shoulder

• Swelling and redness

• Pain during movement or rest

  
  

When to See a Physiotherapist

If you're experiencing shoulder pain that lasts more than a few days, or if your pain is interfering with daily activities or sleep, it’s time to seek professional help.

At Motion Lab, our experienced physiotherapists are trained to:

• Assess and diagnose your shoulder condition

• Create a personalised treatment plan

• Reduce inflammation and pain

• Restore mobility and strength

• Prevent future injuries

  
  

How Motion Lab Treats Shoulder Injuries

Our comprehensive approach combines the best of manual therapy, movement-based rehab, and patient education. We treat not just the symptoms—but the root cause of your pain.

🔹 What You Can Expect:

• Hands-on therapy to relieve stiffness and tension

• Joint mobilisations to restore proper mechanics

• Targeted strengthening and stretching exercises

• Postural and ergonomic advice

• Ongoing progress tracking and support

Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, work-related strain, or chronic shoulder pain, our team at Motion Lab is here to guide you every step of the way.

FAQ: Shoulder Pain & Injury Treatment

What is the most common shoulder injury?

The most common shoulder injuries we treat are rotator cuff strains, shoulder impingement, and bursitis—often caused by overuse or poor posture.

Can physiotherapy help with a rotator cuff tear?

Yes—physiotherapy for rotator cuff injuries is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments. Our therapists focus on pain reduction, tissue healing, and restoring shoulder strength and function.

How long does it take to recover from a shoulder injury?

Recovery time varies based on the injury type and severity. Minor strains may improve within 2–4 weeks, while more complex issues like frozen shoulder may take several months. Early intervention speeds up healing.

Book a Shoulder Assessment at Motion Lab Today

Don’t let shoulder pain limit your lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with a rotator cuff tear, frozen shoulder, or postural pain, the team at Motion Lab can help you move and feel better—fast.