Will my frozen shoulder get better on its own?

The majority of frozen shoulders do eventually resolve spontaneously, but this can take 1–3 years. A significant proportion of patients are left with some permanent residual stiffness. Specialist management across all phases reduces pain and accelerates the best chance of full recovery. Early intervention is beneficial.

How long does rotator cuff tendinopathy take to recover?

With appropriate management, most patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy experience significant improvement within 6–12 weeks of starting a progressive loading programme. Full recovery and return to overhead sport or heavy manual work may take a number of months. Cases that have been present for longer before treatment tend to take longer to resolve.

Should I have surgery after a first shoulder dislocation?

The decision depends on age, activity level and associated injuries. In young, active patients, particularly those under 25 involved in contact sport, surgical stabilisation following a first dislocation significantly reduces recurrence rates compared to rehabilitation alone. Older or less active patients are more likely to be managed successfully with rehabilitation alone. The choice should be made following specialist assessment and full discussion of the individual's circumstances.

Can I manage shoulder arthritis without surgery?

Yes. Many patients manage shoulder OA effectively with non-operative measures for years. Specialist Hand Therapy can provide meaningful symptom relief. Surgery is considered when non-operative measures are no longer adequate and quality of life is significantly impacted.

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can refer yourself directly to Ms Razo without going through your GP. Same-week appointments are usually available.

Shoulder Specialist · Belfast

When your shoulder
holds you back.

Rotator cuff and tendon pain, a frozen or stiff shoulder, instability after a dislocation, or recovery from a fracture: specialist Hand Therapy may help restore movement, strength and reach.

Book an Assessment No GP referral needed · Same-week appointments

Why a shoulder specialist

Not just hands.
Shoulders too.

Patients are often surprised that a Hand Therapist treats shoulders. Ms Razo's expertise spans the full upper limb, hand to shoulder, bringing the same specialist assessment and rehabilitation to rotator cuff problems, frozen shoulder, instability and recovery after injury.

Her title of Hand Therapist is somewhat misleading because her expertise includes wrist, arm, elbow and shoulder. Her assessments are thorough and such a service is not readily available elsewhere.

Alan P Hand, wrist, arm & shoulder Verified Google review

Shoulder conditions treated

Conditions treated at the shoulder.

All conditions

Frozen Shoulder Stiff, painful, restricted shoulder Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy Shoulder pain lifting the arm Shoulder Bursitis Inflammation, pain on movement Biceps Tendinopathy Front-of-shoulder tendon pain Shoulder Dislocations & Instability Unstable or dislocating shoulder Shoulder Fractures Broken collarbone or upper arm Shoulder Osteoarthritis Worn, painful shoulder joint Winged Scapula Protruding shoulder blade, weakness

What happens next

A proper assessment changes everything.

Detailed history

Ms Razo takes time to understand exactly when and how your symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, what treatments you have already had and what impact it is having on your life, sleep and function.

Clinical examination

A thorough hands-on assessment of the shoulder, including range-of-movement, strength and reach testing alongside structured clinical tests, to identify the source of your symptoms.

Diagnosis and explanation

Ms Razo will explain what she has found, what may be causing your symptoms and what the treatment options are. Many patients describe the clarity of a specialist diagnosis as a significant relief.

Treatment plan

A personalised plan agreed from the outset, with clear goals and a realistic timeline. Depending on the diagnosis this may include progressive strengthening and loading, manual therapy to restore movement, and activity modification, with onward referral where needed.

FAQ

Shoulder questions, answered.

: The majority of frozen shoulders do eventually resolve spontaneously, but this can take 1–3 years. A significant proportion of patients are left with some permanent residual stiffness. Specialist management across all phases reduces pain and accelerates the best chance of full recovery. Early intervention is beneficial.
: With appropriate management, most patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy experience significant improvement within 6–12 weeks of starting a progressive loading programme. Full recovery and return to overhead sport or heavy manual work may take a number of months. Cases that have been present for longer before treatment tend to take longer to resolve.
: The decision depends on age, activity level and associated injuries. In young, active patients, particularly those under 25 involved in contact sport, surgical stabilisation following a first dislocation significantly reduces recurrence rates compared to rehabilitation alone. Older or less active patients are more likely to be managed successfully with rehabilitation alone. The choice should be made following specialist assessment and full discussion of the individual's circumstances.
: Yes. Many patients manage shoulder OA effectively with non-operative measures for years. Specialist Hand Therapy can provide meaningful symptom relief. Surgery is considered when non-operative measures are no longer adequate and quality of life is significantly impacted.
: No. You can refer yourself directly to Ms Razo without going through your GP. Same-week appointments are usually available.

Get your shoulder moving again.

Book a specialist assessment with Ms Razo and leave with a clear diagnosis and a plan. Most people are seen within the same week.

Book an Assessment 028 9099 3464

When your shoulderholds you back.