Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can be quite debilitative and restrictive for both every day activities and for the sporting populations.
There are many different types of shoulder pain that require different management and rehabilitation strategies. These may include:
- Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (also known as Bursitis)
- Tendinopathy or ‘tendinitis’
- Instability
- Glenoid labral pathology (SLAP lesion)
- Adhesive capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)
- AC- joint sprain or tear
- Rotator Cuff Tendon tear
- Referred pain from other structures in the area such as the neck
As you can see there are numerous pathologies that can cause shoulder pain. An experienced physiotherapist at Complete Balance will assist in determining the cause of your pain and address the contributing factors in order to reduce your pain or build back your function.
What you may feel / experience with shoulder pain:
- Sharp/ pinching pain with certain arm movement or positions
- Heavy aching pain even into the arm
- Pain on waking up in the morning
- Difficultly getting comfortable in bed
- Reduced or painful range of motion
How can Physiotherapy help you?
Physiotherapy at Complete Balance will help reduce your pain via a number of strategies such as manual therapy & dry needling, education, exercise therapy and unloading positions. It is then imperative to address the ever-important causative factors so the pain stays away. This may include:
- Improving your upper back & neck mobility
- Improving your muscle strength or the reducing tightness
- Increase control and strength of your shoulder blade muscles
- Addressing any room for improvement in your technique (tennis serve for example)
- Reducing general overload or repetitive movements
- Working on deficiency else where in the kinetic chain
Contact Us today and see one of our expert physiotherapists to help reduce your shoulder pain and return you to full function.
Our Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain can be caused by rotator cuff injuries, tendon irritation, bursitis, shoulder impingement, instability, or muscle strain. It commonly occurs with gym training, overhead sports, throwing activities, or repetitive lifting.
Can physiotherapy help with shoulder pain?
Yes. Physiotherapy is highly effective for managing shoulder pain. Treatment may include hands-on therapy, progressive strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilisers, movement retraining, and load management to restore pain-free function.
Do I need surgery for shoulder pain?
Not all shoulder injuries require surgery. Many rotator cuff and tendon-related conditions can be successfully managed with structured rehabilitation. A physiotherapy assessment helps determine whether conservative treatment is appropriate or if referral for specialist review is needed.
Can I continue going to the gym with shoulder pain?
In many cases, modified training is recommended rather than complete rest. A physiotherapist can guide safe exercise selection and adjust loading to support recovery while maintaining strength and fitness.
How long does shoulder pain take to improve?
Recovery time depends on the diagnosis and severity of the condition. Mild muscle or tendon irritation may improve within weeks, while more complex or long-standing issues may require a structured rehabilitation program over several months.