Common causes of shoulder pain
The shoulder is a complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles that all need to work together. Pain can arise from one or more of these structures, or from nearby areas such as the neck.
Examples of conditions that may cause shoulder pain include:
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears
- Shoulder impingement
- Bursitis
- Shoulder instability and dislocations
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Arthritis of the shoulder joint (glenohumeral) or acromioclavicular (AC) joint
- Fractures of the collarbone (clavicle), upper arm (humerus) or shoulder blade (scapula)
- Tendon or ligament injuries around the shoulder
The most suitable management will depend on an accurate diagnosis, the severity and duration of symptoms, your general health, and your work and activity requirements.
When to talk to your GP about a referral
In Australia, a referral from a medical practitioner is usually required before seeing an orthopaedic surgeon. Your GP is the first point of contact and can help decide whether referral to a shoulder surgeon in Brisbane or on the Sunshine Coast is appropriate.
You should see your GP promptly if you have:
- Sudden shoulder pain after a fall, tackle or accident
- A feeling that the shoulder has “popped out” or repeated dislocations
- Difficulty lifting the arm above shoulder height
- Night pain that wakes you or prevents you from lying on that side
- Marked weakness or loss of function
- Visible deformity, swelling or bruising
- Pain that is not settling with simple measures over several weeks
If your GP is concerned about a structural problem, such as a significant tendon tear, recurrent instability or advanced arthritis, they may consider a referral to a shoulder specialist for further assessment and discussion of management options.
What does a shoulder surgeon do?
A shoulder surgeon is an orthopaedic surgeon with particular experience in conditions affecting the shoulder, and often the broader upper limb (shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand). Many patients and referrers use online searches such as “shoulder surgeon Brisbane” or “shoulder specialist Brisbane” when looking for this type of service.
The role of the shoulder surgeon typically includes:
- Taking a detailed history of your symptoms and how they affect daily activities
- Examining the shoulder and nearby joints
- Reviewing or arranging appropriate imaging (such as X‑rays, ultrasound or MRI when clinically indicated)
- Explaining the likely diagnosis in clear terms
- Outlining both non‑surgical and surgical options, including potential benefits, limitations and possible risks
- Working in conjunction with your GP, physiotherapist and other health professionals as part of your overall care
Being referred to a shoulder specialist does not mean that surgery will be required. In many situations, non‑surgical management is the main or initial approach.
Non‑surgical management options
For many shoulder conditions, particularly early or less severe problems, non‑surgical treatment may be appropriate. Depending on your diagnosis and overall health, this may include:
- Activity modification – temporarily changing or reducing movements that aggravate symptoms
- Targeted physiotherapy – exercises prescribed by a physiotherapist to address strength, control, posture and flexibility
- Simple pain relief – for example, paracetamol or anti‑inflammatory medication, when suitable for you and recommended by your doctor
- Injections – such as corticosteroid injections for selected conditions, when considered appropriate by your treating doctor
- Bracing or supports – sometimes used after particular injuries or in early instability
- Lifestyle measures – optimising weight, avoiding smoking and managing other health conditions, as these factors can influence recovery and overall health
A shoulder surgeon can collaborate with your GP and physiotherapist to develop a plan that is appropriate for your specific condition. Not all treatments are suitable for every person, and responses to treatment vary between individuals.
When surgery may be discussed
Surgery is usually discussed when:
- There is a significant structural problem (for example, a large rotator cuff tear or recurrent dislocations), and
- Symptoms are having a substantial impact on function or quality of life, and
- Non‑surgical measures have been tried where appropriate, or are unlikely on clinical grounds to be sufficient on their own
- Examples of situations where operative treatment may be considered include:
- Recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability
- Some rotator cuff tears
- Ongoing shoulder impingement symptoms that have not improved despite an adequate trial of non‑surgical care
- Advanced arthritis of the shoulder joint that is significantly affecting daily activities
- Certain fractures around the shoulder
Every operation has potential risks and limitations, and outcomes differ between individuals. A shoulder specialist in Brisbane or on the Sunshine Coast should explain:
- The aims and general nature of the proposed procedure
- The expected course of recovery and rehabilitation
- Possible complications and uncertainties
- Reasonable alternative options, including continuing non‑surgical management or not proceeding with surgery
- This information allows you to consider the options and to make decisions in consultation with your treating team.
What to expect from a specialist consultation
If your GP refers you to a shoulder surgeon (eg Dr Joe Coory) in Brisbane or on the Sunshine Coast, a consultation commonly includes:
- History – discussion about when and how the symptoms started, how they affect work, sport, sleep and daily tasks, and any treatments you have already tried.
- Examination – assessment of movement, strength and stability, and consideration of nearby joints and the neck.
- Review of imaging – interpretation of X‑rays or scans, where available, in the context of your symptoms and examination findings.
- Explanation – a clear explanation of the likely diagnosis and contributing factors, using language you can understand.
- Management plan – outlining suitable options for your situation, which may include further non‑surgical management, a period of monitoring, or discussion of surgical treatment when appropriate.
- Communication with your referrer – a letter back to your GP or other referrer summarising the assessment and the agreed plan.
You are encouraged to ask questions and to take time to consider the information provided. You may find it helpful to bring a list of questions or a support person to the appointment.
Choosing a shoulder specialist
If you and your GP decide that specialist review is appropriate, you may wish to consider:
- Training and scope of practice – whether the surgeon’s practice includes the shoulder and upper limb
- Experience with similar conditions – for example, instability, rotator cuff disease, arthritis or fractures
- Communication style – whether you feel your concerns are listened to and your questions are answered in an understandable way
- Location and access – for example, whether you prefer to see a shoulder specialist in Brisbane or closer to home on the Sunshine Coast
- Team‑based care – arrangements for physiotherapy, rehabilitation and communication with your GP and other health professionals
Your GP can assist you in choosing a specialist who is appropriate for your clinical needs and circumstances.
Travelling from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast for shoulder care
People who search for terms such as “shoulder surgeon Brisbane” or “shoulder specialist Brisbane” may consider care in different locations, including the Sunshine Coast. Some patients are comfortable travelling for subspecialist assessment, while others prefer to stay close to home.
If you are thinking about travelling for shoulder care, practical issues to consider include:
- Transport for appointments and any procedures
- Availability of support at home during the early recovery phase
- Access to local physiotherapy and ongoing follow‑up
- Clear communication between the surgeon, your GP and local treating team
These points can be discussed with your GP and the specialist’s rooms so that any care is planned in a way that is realistic for you.
Key points to remember
Many shoulder problems may improve over time with appropriate non‑surgical management.
A referral to a shoulder surgeon does not mean that surgery is necessary or inevitable.
Benefits, risks, limitations and alternatives should all be discussed before you decide about any procedure.
Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be predicted or guaranteed in advance.
Possible next steps
If you have shoulder pain, stiffness or a sense of instability:
- Arrange an appointment with your GP or usual doctor.
- Discuss your symptoms, any injuries, your medical history and your goals for work, sport and daily activities.
Ask whether referral to an orthopaedic shoulder specialist (eg. Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group) in Brisbane or on the Sunshine Coast would be appropriate in your situation.
Important information – This article provides general information only and does not constitute personal medical advice. Treatment decisions should follow a thorough clinical assessment and discussion of your goals, preferences and circumstances. Outcomes and recovery times vary between individuals. All procedures and interventions carry risks. These will be discussed with you before any treatment decisions are made. No testimonials, inducements, or comparative or superiority claims are intended or included in this information. For individual advice, please consult your GP or an appropriately qualified health professional. If you have sudden severe pain, suspected fracture or concerning symptoms, seek urgent medical attention.
