World Moto GP champion Valentino Rossi has revealed that the pain of a damaged shoulder joint may hamper his efforts in the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez this weekend.

The 31-year-old cracked a bone in his shoulder and damaged ligaments in a recent crash and would have had to sit out the Japanese Grand Prix had it not been postponed because of the effect of the Icelandic volcano on air travel.

He stated: "Unfortunately the shoulder is still a problem and there is some pain. Normally this injury takes three weeks to heal and it's two weeks since it happened now."

Despite being a week off full fitness, however, Rossi will still be on his bike for the event, he confirmed.

Those who have a painful shoulder joint may find that using ultrasound equipment helps the healing process.

One sportsman who has suffered a more serious problem is Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given, who has had surgery this week after dislocating his shoulder last Saturday.

As a result, he may be struggling to be fit to play again by the start of next season in August.