Shoulder Problems in Everyday Life – Causes and Solutions

The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body – and therefore particularly susceptible to injuries and wear. Shoulder pain is, after back and knee problems, among the most common complaints treated by orthopaedists. The causes can be very varied.

Common Shoulder Conditions

• Impingement syndrome: Pinching of tendons and bursae when raising the arm
• Rotator cuff tear: Tear of one or more tendons of the shoulder musculature
• Calcific tendinitis: Calcium deposits in the shoulder tendon
• Shoulder osteoarthritis: Wear of the shoulder joint
• Frozen shoulder: Painful loss of shoulder joint mobility
• Acromioclavicular joint arthrosis: Wear of the joint between the collarbone and shoulder blade

Diagnosis and Examination

For a precise diagnosis, we perform a clinical examination using standardised tests. Imaging methods such as ultrasound (sonography), X-ray, and MRI allow us to assess the affected structures accurately and adapt the therapy individually.

Treatment Options

Most shoulder problems can initially be treated conservatively:

• Physiotherapy and targeted strengthening exercises
• Shockwave therapy for calcific tendinitis
• Ultrasound-guided injections (cortisone, hyaluronic acid)
• Pain management and anti-inflammatory medication

Surgery is only considered once conservative measures have been exhausted – for example, arthroscopic shoulder surgery for tendon reconstruction.

Published 25 February 2025 | Orthopädie Düsseldorf