MSK Physiotherapy
Shoulder Pain
Sudden or gradual shoulder pain from rotator cuff problems, impingement, frozen shoulder, instability and more.
Shoulder pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It may develop suddenly following an injury or gradually over time due to sport, work, repetitive overhead movements or everyday activities. Because many shoulder conditions can cause similar symptoms, a thorough assessment is essential to identify the source of your pain and guide the most effective treatment.
Common causes
- Rotator Cuff TendinopathyIrritation or degeneration of the rotator cuff tendons, often causing pain with lifting, reaching or overhead activities.
- Rotator Cuff TearsPartial or complete tears of the rotator cuff tendons that can result from injury or age-related wear and tear, leading to pain and weakness.
- Shoulder ImpingementIrritation of the tendons or bursa as they pass through the shoulder, often causing pain when reaching overhead or behind your back.
- Scapular Dysfunction (Scapular Dyskinesis)Poor movement or control of the shoulder blade that can alter shoulder movement.
- Shoulder BursitisInflammation of the bursa within the shoulder, resulting in pain, tenderness and reduced movement.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)Progressive pain and significant joint stiffness.
- Shoulder InstabilityExcessive movement of the shoulder joint that may cause feelings of looseness, weakness or repeated episodes of giving way.
- Shoulder Dislocation & SubluxationOccurs when the ball of the shoulder partially or completely moves out of the socket, often following trauma or sporting injuries.
- Labral TearsInjury to the cartilage rim surrounding the shoulder socket, which can cause pain, clicking, catching or instability.
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint InjuriesSprains or arthritis affecting the joint on the top of the shoulder, commonly caused by falls or direct impact.
- Shoulder OsteoarthritisWear and tear of the shoulder joint.
- Referred PainSometimes shoulder pain originates from the neck or upper back rather than the shoulder itself.
Assessment & treatment
Your physiotherapist will complete a comprehensive assessment to determine the cause of your pain and create a treatment plan tailored to your goals, lifestyle and activity level.
Assessment may include:
- 1Discussing your symptoms, medical history and goals
- 2Assessing your shoulder movement, strength and function
- 3Performing clinical tests to identify the structures involved
- 4Reviewing any X-rays, ultrasound or MRI scans where appropriate
Treatment may include:
- Education about your condition and recovery
- Personalised exercise and strengthening programs
- Hands-on therapy, including joint mobilisation, dry needling and soft tissue techniques
- Activity modification and load management
- Taping where appropriate
- Rehabilitation to help you return to work, sport and the activities you enjoy
How Simba Health treats Shoulder Pain
Our msk physiotherapy clinicians assess the cause of your symptoms and build a personalised, evidence-based plan to treat Shoulder Pain. With no GP referral required and initial appointments from $99, you can start care quickly at a clinic near you.
MSK Physiotherapy near you
Frequently asked questions
No. You can book msk physiotherapy directly at Simba Health with no GP referral, so you can start treatment for Shoulder Pain without delay. Initial appointments start from $99. A referral may still help if you're claiming under a care plan.
Shoulder Pain is treated under our msk physiotherapy service, with initial consultations from $99 and lower follow-up fees. We keep our pricing transparent so you know what to expect before your appointment.
Our msk physiotherapy clinicians assess the underlying cause of your symptoms, then build a personalised, evidence-based treatment plan for Shoulder Pain. Many people start to notice improvement once the right plan is underway.
Not sure this is right for you?
Call us and we'll help you find the right service and clinician for your needs.
(02) 9188 0544