Your Shoulder

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body — and that mobility comes at a cost. The shoulder relies on a complex system of muscles, tendons, and ligaments rather than deep bony geometry to stay stable, which makes it vulnerable to both acute injury and gradual wear.

The key structures of the shoulder include the rotator cuff (a group of four tendons that stabilise and power shoulder movement), the labrum (a ring of cartilage that deepens the shoulder socket), the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, and the biceps tendon. Injury to any of these structures can cause significant pain, weakness, or instability.

Shoulder injuries are among the most common in New Zealand sport. Rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocation, and labral injuries are frequently seen after rugby, netball, cricket, and gym activities. Many acute shoulder injuries are eligible for ACC cover, which can significantly reduce the cost of specialist assessment, imaging, and treatment.

When should you see a shoulder specialist?

You should consider a specialist referral if you experience any of the following: shoulder pain that has not improved after six weeks of physiotherapy, weakness in the arm or difficulty lifting, a shoulder that has dislocated or repeatedly gives way, pain that is disturbing your sleep, or loss of range of movement. Early specialist assessment leads to better outcomes — particularly for rotator cuff tears and instability, where timely treatment can prevent further damage.

To arrange a referral, ask your GP or physiotherapist to send a referral to Dr. Boyle at Auckland Bone and Joint Surgery. Referrals can be sent via HealthLink EDI: drmboyle, or by calling 09 281 6733. Dr. Boyle consults at AUT Millennium, 17 Antares Place, Rosedale, North Shore, Auckland.