Patient: 47-year-old male, recreational golfer
Subjective Complaints:
- 6 months of gradual onset left shoulder pain
- Pain worse at night and with shoulder abduction/putting on jacket
- Plays golf regularly
Objective Findings:
- Pain with shoulder abduction at 160 degrees
- Trigger points palpated in rotator cuff muscles
- Protracted posture
Diagnosis: Rotator cuff tendinopathy
Treatment Plan at Peter’s Physiotherapy Glasgow:
- Radial shockwave therapy: 4 sessions at 120mJ and 8Hz, 2-3k shocks per session
- Thor laser therapy
- Electro-acupuncture
- Kinesio Taping
- Rotator cuff eccentric loading exercises for supraspinatus
- Posture re-education
Treatment Response:
The patient reported noticeable improvement in shoulder pain after the 2nd shockwave session. He was able to complete progressively more demanding rotator cuff exercises without aggravating symptoms.
After the 4th shockwave session, he demonstrated:
- Full pain-free shoulder abduction
- Resolved trigger points
- Improved postural alignment
At discharge after 6 weeks of treatment, the patient was able to return to playing golf without limitations. He was educated on a home exercise program to prevent future recurrence.
Summary
This case highlights the successful multimodal treatment approach for rotator cuff tendinopathy combining radial shockwave therapy, laser, electroacupuncture, taping, eccentric exercises, and posture correction at Peter’s Physiotherapy Glasgow. The patient experienced significant pain reduction, improved range of motion, and a return to full function and sporting activities.
If you’re suffering from shoulder pain like this golfer, book an appointment today to get started on your treatment plan tailored to your condition and goals.
