Why Your Shoulder Pain Might Be RCRSP
If you struggle to hang out the washing, reach into a high cupboard, or find a comfortable sleeping position, you aren’t alone. These are the hallmark signs of Rotator Cuff-Related Shoulder Pain (RCRSP).
At Bodyreform (1 Schofield Street, Grey Lynn), we see this condition frequently. It is actually the most common cause of shoulder pain, accounting for approximately 70% of cases. RCRSP is an “umbrella term” that includes conditions you might have heard called shoulder impingement, bursitis, or rotator cuff tears.
Who is at Risk?
RCRSP affects between 7% and 26% of the general population. Interestingly, the prevalence rises significantly with age, affecting over 60% of people over 80 years old.
However, it’s not just about age. At our Grey Lynn studio, we often find that lifestyle factors play a huge role. You are at higher risk if you have experienced:
- A sudden increase in physical load (e.g., starting a new gym program or a big DIY project).
- Lifestyle stressors such as poor sleep, high stress, or poor nutrition.
- Reduced physical activity or a recent increase in smoking.
How Do You Know if You Have RCRSP?
Because the pain can come from various structures like muscles, tendons, or the bursa, it can feel different for everyone. Common things our patients tell us include:
- “It hurts when I lift my arm overhead”.
- “I can’t sleep on that shoulder”.
- “It feels weak when I’m lifting things”.
- “I’ve had this pain for months after just a minor tweak”.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
If you are experiencing any of the following, it is time for a professional assessment:
- Pain with Overhead Movements: Difficulty reaching into cupboards or lifting at the gym.
- Pain at Night: Disturbed sleep and inability to lie on the affected side.
- The “Painful Arc”: A sharp “catch” of pain when lifting your arm out to the side.
- Weakness: The shoulder feels fatigued or sore when pushing, pulling, or carrying.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Symptoms of RCRSP often persist; over 40% of people still report issues 12 months after the pain first started if it isn’t managed correctly.
At Bodyreform, Sarah and Emma specialize in diagnosing the specific drivers of your shoulder pain. We don’t just look at the shoulder; we look at your lifestyle and movement patterns to create a plan that gets you back to your best.
Struggling with shoulder pain in Auckland? Book your assessment at Bodyreform today.