Conditions
Shoulder pain
The most common cause of shoulder pain is a rotator cuff problem, the group of tendons that move and stabilise the joint: tendinopathy, partial tears or bursitis. Other causes are adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) and osteoarthritis. Pain when raising the arm, getting dressed or lying on that side at night is typical. Dynamic ultrasound in clinic is the ideal test for the shoulder, and in many cases treatment does not require surgery. Dr Julio De la Morena assesses it at Hospital Memorial Publio Cordón (Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid).
Common symptoms
- Pain when raising the arm or reaching behind you.
- Night pain that wakes you when you turn onto that shoulder.
- Weakness when lifting objects overhead.
- Progressive stiffness and loss of movement, in frozen shoulder.
Diagnosis
The examination identifies which structure hurts, and ultrasound shows the rotator cuff tendons moving, detecting tears, calcifications or bursitis on the spot, without waiting for another appointment.
Treatment
- Therapeutic exercise to regain strength and control of the shoulder.
- Ultrasound-guided injections into the bursa or joint when pain prevents progress.
- Autologous growth factors in selected tendinopathies and partial tears.
- Surgical assessment for complete tears in active patients or when conservative treatment does not work.
Frequently asked questions
Does a rotator cuff tear always need surgery?
No. Many partial and degenerative tears respond well to conservative treatment. Surgery is considered for complete traumatic tears in active people or when treatment does not work.
Why does my shoulder hurt more at night?
Lying down, the pressure on the shoulder and the position of the arm increase tension on the irritated tendons and bursa. It is a very typical symptom of rotator cuff problems.
Request an assessment
Regenerative Therapies and Sports Medicine Unit · Hospital Memorial Publio Cordón · +34 913 548 990
Written and reviewed by Dr Julio De la Morena Garzón, specialist in Sport and Exercise Medicine (Madrid Medical Council no. 281903698). Last reviewed: October 2026. General information that does not replace a medical consultation.