Shoulder Pain During Shoulder Press? Here's What You Need to Know

The shoulder press is a powerful movement that builds upper body strength and stability—but it also puts a lot of stress on your shoulder joints. If you’ve ever felt a sharp, pinching pain while pressing overhead, you’re not alone. This discomfort is often linked to a condition called shoulder impingement syndrome.

In this blog, we’ll break down:

• What causes shoulder pain during the shoulder press

• What the Hawkins-Kennedy test is

• How physiotherapy can help you recover and prevent further injury

What Causes Shoulder Pain During a Shoulder Press?

During a shoulder press, your rotator cuff muscles and tendons work hard to stabilize the shoulder. When these structures become irritated or pinched under the acromion (the top of your shoulder blade), it leads to subacromial impingement.

Common causes include:

• Poor overhead technique or posture

• Muscle imbalances (weak rotator cuff or tight chest muscles)

• Lifting too heavy without proper warm-up

• Previous shoulder injuries or instability

The Hawkins-Kennedy Test: A Physiotherapist’s Diagnostic Tool

One of the most commonly used clinical tests for shoulder impingement is the Hawkins-Kennedy Test.

🔬 How the Test Works:

1. You’ll sit or stand while the physiotherapist lifts your arm in front of you to 90 degrees.

2. With your elbow bent at 90 degrees, the therapist internally rotates your shoulder.

3. If this motion causes a sharp pain in the front or top of your shoulder, the test is considered positive for impingement.

This test helps narrow down the source of your pain and guides the physiotherapy treatment plan.

How Physiotherapy Treats Shoulder Impingement

Once the diagnosis is made, physiotherapists work on restoring optimal shoulder function with a customized approach. Treatment may include:

✅ Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques to reduce muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and decrease pain.

✅ Exercise Prescription

Targeted strengthening of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, along with stretches to improve mobility.

✅ Posture & Movement Correction

Training your body to move efficiently during overhead lifts to prevent recurrence.

✅ Activity Modification

Your physiotherapist may temporarily adjust your workout program to reduce stress on the joint while it heals.

Preventing Shoulder Pain in the Gym

Here are a few tips to keep your shoulders healthy while lifting:

• Warm up thoroughly with mobility drills

• Prioritize form over heavy loads

• Strengthen your rotator cuff and scapular muscles

• Incorporate rest and recovery into your training plan

Conclusion

Shoulder pain during a shoulder press isn’t something to ignore. Early diagnosis using tools like the Hawkins-Kennedy Test, combined with professional physiotherapy care, can help you recover faster and get back to pain-free training.

If you're experiencing shoulder discomfort during workouts, consult a physiotherapist today—your shoulders will thank you!