Osteopath or physiotherapist?

[Drwhodunnit]

I seem to have a frozen shoulder or at least something that's making the area around my shoulder blade feel achey and numb. The numbness has now travelled down my right arm, the upper part of which is sore if I press it. My hand too has started to numb.

Would an osteopath or physiotherapist be better to see? I don't mind paying privately as can't get an osteopath on the nhs.

I’d see your GP in the first instance. I’ve had frozen shoulder and from what you describe, it doesn’t sound like that.

In my case, once diagnosed, I was able to access NHS physiotherapy services which were great but by then, I was already in the thawing or recovery stage.

Can you self refer to NHS physio?
Or pay privately for a physio.

This is MN so be prepared to be told physiotherapists are rubbish and osteopaths and chiropractors are miracle healers.

Private physio for me, mine is amazing and has the time to do any treatments she feels is right, inc acupuncture

Physio every time.

Physio, and if you go private and they have good connections, should you need referral onwards they should be able to do that to your preferred hospital and also update your gp.
NHS physio is of course an option, but likely to be a long wait. Make sure you ask to book with a physio who has a particular interest in shoulders.

Physio. It sounds like nerve pain

I have use a physio on the NHS, a chiropractor and an osteopath privately. For me the most beneficial was an osteopath.

Private physio has changed my life. Also a bit of a hunk!! 🤭🙃🤪

Osteo. Every time

Physio, but it would be wise to arrange an mri to check what's causing the numbness. If you life strength in your arm you could have permanent nerve damage.

lose strength

I'm a physio. If you have numbness it is worth seeing someone who will assess your neck and shoulder. A GP can advise you or look for a private physiotherapist if you can afford it. It'll usually one appointment will be enough to get you assessed and diagnosed and start a treatment plan. There are good resources on patient dot co dot uk if you want to read up on frozen shoulder to see if your symptoms fit the condition.

GP first. My numb hand ended up with elbow surgery for a trapped nerve due to arthritis.

Both. They offer different approaches. If you are out of alignment, the osteopath will straighten things out. If you have a frozen shoulder, very specific exercises will prevent your frozen shoulder bedding in for two years before you start to come out of it. Early intervention will also help prevent lasting damage.

I found osteo a complete waste of time and money. Physio was great. However I'd check with doc as numbness needs checked out.

I have back and shoulder problems and have used every type of therapist. Would always go for physio but try one that also does acupuncture. Usually private is better but I have had good physio on NHS but not often. Have also had acupuncture on NHS. Good luck.

When I was referred to a surgeon his advice was always physio but chiro and osteo can be good for short-lived problems. Not from chronic or long term.

Thanks for all the responses. I've now booked a private physio to assess.

If you are out of alignment, the osteopath will straighten things out.

What does this even mean?