Shoulder pain · Ponsonby
Rotator cuff treatment for shoulder pain that will not resolve
The rotator cuff is the group of tendons that stabilise the shoulder and control overhead movement. When one of them is strained or overloaded, it causes a deep ache, often worst at night and when lifting the arm out to the side or overhead. We see this regularly in builders, painters, swimmers and gym-goers. The frustrating pattern is that it tends to come and go rather than fully heal, because the tendon is never given what it needs to repair.
Does this sound like you?
- ✓ Deep shoulder pain that is worst at night or when lying on that side
- ✓ Pain when lifting the arm overhead or out to the side, sometimes with a catching sensation
- ✓ A dull ache that eases during warm-up then returns after activity
- ✓ The shoulder has been sore for months without fully recovering
If that sounds like you, this is exactly what we treat. Book an assessment and we will confirm the right plan.
What is actually going on
The most common problem we see is rotator cuff tendinopathy, a load and wear issue in one or more of the tendons. In some people, calcium deposits form in the tendon (calcific tendinopathy), causing sudden intense pain. Both respond well to treatment; the right approach depends on what is actually happening, which is why the assessment matters.
How we treat rotator cuff pain
We assess the shoulder, test each tendon and, where it would change management, refer for imaging. For rotator cuff tendinopathy that has not settled, shockwave is highly effective at stimulating repair and reducing pain. For calcific tendinopathy specifically, it is one of the best treatments available: it breaks down calcium deposits and triggers the body to reabsorb them. We combine shockwave with shoulder strengthening and scapular control work to make the result stick.
What to expect
The shoulder is a complex joint and recovery is step-by-step. We give you a clear loading programme and adjust it as your strength and range of motion return. Most people make meaningful progress within a few weeks of starting treatment.
This is one of the injuries we treat with shockwave therapy at our Ponsonby clinic. Read more about how shockwave works, who it suits and what a course of treatment involves.
Common questions
Is shockwave good for rotator cuff injuries? +
What is calcific tendinopathy? +
Do I need a scan first? +
Do I need a referral? +
Related
Other injuries we treat
Shockwave therapy in Ponsonby
How shockwave works, who it suits and what a course of treatment involves.
About shockwave therapy →Achilles tendonitis treatment
The niggle at the back of the heel that will not settle, even after months of rest and stretching.
Achilles Pain →Plantar fasciitis treatment
That sharp, stabbing heel pain on the first steps out of bed in the morning.
Heel Pain →Tennis elbow treatment
Pain on the outside of the elbow from gripping all day, and you have never picked up a racquet.
Tennis Elbow →Golfer's elbow treatment
Pain on the inside of the elbow from gripping and wrist work, and you have probably never played golf.
Golfer's Elbow →Trigger point treatment
Tight, aching muscle knots in the neck, shoulders or back that refer pain to other areas.
Trigger Points →Hamstring pain and tendon treatment
Recurring hamstring tightness or a deep ache at the sit bone that has not resolved with stretching or rest.
Hamstring Pain →Shin splints and shin pain treatment
Shin pain that comes back every time you build your running: shin splints that rest alone has not fixed.
Shin Pain →Shoulder and hip bursitis treatment
A burning, persistent pain in the shoulder or hip, and you want a solution beyond repeated injections.
Bursitis →Not sure if it's right for you?
Send us a message
Tell us what's going on and we'll come back to you within one business day.
Book your assessment
Your first visit is a full assessment, hands-on treatment, and a plan you take home.
Visit us
Our Ponsonby clinic
Return To Form Physio
179A Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Entry on Franklin Road
ACC registered · Multi-disciplinary team · Treating Ponsonby for over 16 years