Lisa – complex shoulder journey

Published 15 June 2025

Lisa has battled ongoing shoulder pain for years. Despite having physiotherapy and even steroid injections, the discomfort persisted. An MRI eventually revealed a rotator cuff tear that required surgery, and although she saw some improvement and completed four months of rehab, things took a turn. Her shoulder began to feel stiff and restricted again. By December 2024, she was diagnosed with a frozen shoulder, a painful and limiting condition. 

Looking for a fresh perspective, Lisa came to the Hub to see our physiotherapist, Ash. They started with a gentle and measured approach, with Ash offering pain management advice in addition to simple exercises to begin easing her movement. With input from her consultant, she also underwent a hydrodistension procedure to help reduce pain and kickstart mobility. 

Now, Lisa is continuing her journey with regular sessions at the Hub. Ash provides a mix of hands-on treatment in the form of massage and stretching, and progressive rehab to help her manage symptoms and steadily improve function. The rehab exercises include assisted range of movement work, isometric strength exercises and proprioceptive drills.  

It’s been a tough and frustrating journey, with plenty of setbacks along the way—but Lisa continues to show incredible patience and resilience. Progress may be slow, but it’s moving in the right direction. 

Well done Lisa! We know it’s been challenging, but you’re doing brilliantly. Keep going!