Painful shoulder because of a weak supraspinatus muscle. physio has given me exercises to strengthen but this causes more pain. how to escape catch 22

Identify pain cause: First concern should be to identify the cause of the supraspinatus weakness and pain. Physiotherapy can be very helpful, but shoulder impingement secondary to a bone spur or abnomral shoulder mechanics need to be assessed. Consult with an orthopaedic surgeon to see if a cortisone injection might help or whether you need to have an ultrasound or MRI done.

Hmmm?: Exercise is always the key nut sometimes medications can reduce the inflammation and pain to allow you to do the exercises. When that doesn't work, a steroid shot can help.