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Conditions we treat
Shoulder PainPain or stiffness that makes reaching and lifting difficult.
Shoulder problems such as rotator cuff pain and frozen shoulder can limit everyday tasks. Physiotherapy helps restore comfortable movement and strength.
Book an AssessmentUnderstand the symptoms
What it feels like
Shoulder Pain can feel different for everyone. You may experience one or more of the following:
Pain when reaching
Especially overhead or behind your back.
Stiffness
Your arm will not lift or rotate as far as before.
Night pain
Pain lying on the affected side.
Weakness
Difficulty lifting or carrying objects.
Clicking or catching
A painful arc when you raise your arm.
Why it happens
Common causes
- Rotator cuff irritation or tears
- Frozen shoulder (often more common with diabetes)
- Overuse from work, sport or repetitive lifting
- Falls or injuries
When to seek help
When to see a physiotherapist
Early assessment and the right exercises can help reduce pain, improve movement and prevent the problem from coming back.
You should see a physiotherapist if:
- Shoulder pain has lasted more than a week or two
- You cannot lift your arm as far as the other one
- Pain wakes you at night
- It affects dressing, work or sport
- You have had a shoulder injury or surgery
Seek urgent medical care if you:
- Shoulder or arm pain with chest pain, breathlessness or sweating
- An obvious deformity after a fall
- You suddenly cannot move your arm after an injury
- A hot, swollen shoulder with fever
If you have any of these, call Rescue 1122 or go to your nearest emergency department — don’t wait for a physiotherapy appointment.
How we help
How we treat shoulder pain
Our treatment is tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle and goals.
1Detailed assessment
We test your shoulder movement and strength to pinpoint the problem.
2Targeted treatment plan
A plan of exercise, hands-on care and activity advice.
3Restore movement and strength
We restore range of motion and rebuild shoulder strength and control.
4Prevent it from coming back
We help you return to reaching, lifting and sport safely.
Typical recovery timeline
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies from person to person. This is a typical guide, not a guarantee.
Weeks 1–3
Ease pain
Pain settles with gentle exercise and activity changes.
Weeks 4–8
Improve movement
Range and strength steadily improve.
8+ weeks
Full use
Return to everyday tasks and sport. Frozen shoulder can take longer.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered.
What is a frozen shoulder?
A condition where the shoulder becomes painful and stiff over months. It usually improves with time, and physiotherapy helps maintain and restore movement.
Should I keep using my arm?
Yes, within comfort. Complete rest can make stiffness worse; we’ll show you what is safe.
Will I need an injection?
Some people benefit from one. If we think it would help, we’ll recommend you discuss it with a doctor.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. You can book an assessment directly. If we think you need scans or a doctor’s opinion, we’ll tell you and help you arrange it.
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