UKH

I've been having recurring issues with my right shoulder, I've seen 3 different physios (same clinic) at varying times with varying degrees of success, at £35 a time. I've been told, bursitis, tendonitis, referred pain from trigger point on my back, knock on effect of a lack of mobility in my supinator muscle and impingements. I've done the exercises, had the treatments and every time it comes back whenever I increase volume of intensity. I've been toying with the idea of seeking a different professional opinion so the question is do I see an osteopath, chiropractor or a Strength and Conditioning coach? What are your experiences and advice? Any help is greatly appreciated, I'm increasingly frustrated by this not just for my climbing but from general life.

Jo Gibson in Liverpool is a shoulder specialist. Not sure how you get to see her (but she does do private work) but I noticed you were local. I have been listening to her on some podcasts recently when searching for some information and these have appear to have very well received by physios and she makes sense to this semi-lay person. Personally I would not go chiropractor or osteopath - it sounds like you need consistency or person and possibly imaging. 

Len Funk Orthopaedic consultant Manchester.

I have had various problems with my shoulders over the years, especially my right one. After doing all the therma band and strengthening exercises, one physio used ultra sound and he found that I had calcification on/in the tendon which rubbed as I moved it up and down - you could see the tendon moving and catching on the screen! I had some shock wave treatment on it and after a week the smaller bits had dissolved.  

These calcite deposits can come and go naturally but I was in considerable pain with mine and it got rid of the pain, I have had kidney stones in the past so I must produce rocks quite easily! Apparently Tea, Chocolate and Chili are bad I've been drinking some Chanca Piedra tea and so far so good (stone breaker tea!).

Obvioulsy you may not have this but maybe worth having a look at just in case.

Yes, I think diagnostics is the key. Personally I wouldn't let anyone start manipulating my joints or muscles without evidence of the damage/problem. But that's just me. Hope you get it sorted soon.

David Potter orthopaedic surgeon sheffield. Get him to have a look - he'll refer to a quality physio if its not a surgical issue

This year I was diagnosed with bursitis (2 separate physios (one via skype) and a GP). Four months of intensive physio got me nowhere. 20 mins with a specialist consultant changed the diagnosis to frozen shoulder. A few weeks later and it was treated and pretty much 99% better within 6 weeks.

I can recommend a specialist shoulder/elbow consultant in York if helpful.

Hi Pbob, thanks for that, and everyone else's suggestions, did you go through your GP for your referral? having looked at a number of the suggested specialists and the fees are way above what I can realistically afford. Glad you got yours sorted!

I think you can pay for an initial consultation then get treated under the NHS. I had mine shoulder repaired by Simon Boyle in York , however he did train under Len Funk in Manchester. Which is nearer to you than York.

Another vote for Len Funk if you are in the NW and needing to look for a medical/surgical opinion.