The shoulder is a more mobile joint than the hip, but that very mobility makes it more prone to injury.

The effects of a shoulder injury can last for years, and as you get older and your joints begin to show signs of wear and tear, pain and lack of mobility at the shoulder can become a real problem. Anyone who has tried to do up their bra strap after sustaining a shoulder injury will know what I mean!

Shoulder injuries need not mean a lifetime of stiffness and reduced movement. In the articles on this page we will provide help and advice on the best methods of treating shoulder injuries, and what to do so that you get as much movement and function back as possible.

Of course, the best way to deal with a shoulder problem is not get one in the first place! As with all things, prevention is much better than cure and there are lots of ways to minimize the risk of shoulder injuries.

Some shoulder problems just seem to appear as you get older – women are especially vulnerable to “Frozen Shoulder”, where the shoulder joint seems to seize up completely. There is no proven scientific explanation for this, although some schools of thought believe the drop in hormone levels caused by the menopause can trigger this distressing and painful problem.  

My professional view is that regular exercise to keep the joint strong and mobile will go a long way to warding off problems. And it is never too late to start! You really don’t have to lift huge weights to work the shoulder; what is most important is doing strength exercises correctly. You would not believe how many clients, when asked to raise their arm over their head hitch their shoulder up to their ear to do so. Wrong muscles!

So please read your way through these articles and with any luck, your shoulders should last a lifetime.

All the best,

Carol J Bartram
(Sports Therapist, Personal Trainer & Massage Therapist)

Shoulder Injuries