Why Shoulder Pain Is So Common
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body — and this mobility comes at the cost of stability.
Moreover, The joint relies heavily on muscles and tendons (particularly the rotator cuff) rather than bony congruence for stability. This makes it vulnerable to overuse, poor posture, and cumulative strain.
Common Shoulder Conditions We Treat
Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy / Tear
Pain with overhead movements, lying on the affected side, and reaching behind the back.
Furthermore, Ranges from mild tendon irritation to partial or full tear. Progressive strengthening is the primary treatment for tendinopathy; tears may require additional intervention depending on severity.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
In addition, A painful arc of movement — typically between 60° and 120° of arm elevation — caused by compression of soft tissues in the sub-acromial space. Physiotherapy correcting posture, scapular positioning, and rotator cuff strength resolves most cases.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Progressive stiffness and pain in all directions, often beginning without clear cause. The condition passes through three phases (freezing, frozen, thawing) over 1–3 years. Manual therapy, joint mobilisation, and guided exercise can significantly shorten the recovery timeline.
AC Joint Injury
Pain at the top of the shoulder following a fall or collision, or from overhead work. Graded by severity — most AC joint injuries are managed conservatively with physiotherapy.
Our Treatment Approach
Moreover, Effective shoulder treatment requires understanding the whole kinetic chain — not just the shoulder itself. Thoracic spine stiffness, scapular dyskinesis, and neck tension all contribute to shoulder symptoms. Our assessment covers all of these areas.
Treatment at Alter Physio may include manual therapy, dry needling or acupuncture, progressive strengthening, postural correction, and sport-specific rehabilitation.
Book a Shoulder Assessment in Amsterdam
If shoulder pain is limiting your work, sleep, or sport, do not wait for it to worsen. Early assessment and treatment typically leads to faster, more complete recovery.
nWritten by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
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Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
