Does shockwave therapy help with shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can arise from tendons, a stiff joint, the neck, or an acute injury. A physical examination, and sometimes imaging, helps locate the problem. Shockwave therapy uses pulses from a device placed over the chosen tissue. It may cause discomfort during treatment and temporary soreness or bruising afterward. A shoulder mobility and strengthening programme is commonly needed because changing the painful tissue without restoring movement may leave daily tasks difficult.

Arrange an assessment if reaching overhead, dressing, sleeping, or lifting is becoming difficult. Share your injury history, medical conditions, medicines, and any shoulder surgery with the clinician. Ask what finding makes shockwave therapy appropriate, whether an exercise programme is required, and how to modify work or sport. Keep the shoulder moving within a comfortable range unless a clinician has advised protection.

Seek urgent assessment after a significant injury with deformity, sudden loss of movement, or major weakness. Chest pain, breathlessness, sweating, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw needs emergency help. A hot, red, swollen shoulder with fever, or new arm numbness and weakness, also requires prompt review. Worsening night pain should be discussed with a clinician.

What is the source of my shoulder pain? Is there a calcium deposit or tendon change to target? What exercises should accompany treatment? What should I avoid temporarily, and when should the diagnosis be reassessed?