Did you know that your shoulders connect three bones and include multiple ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels? It’s no surprise, then that shoulder injuries vary in nature and severity. Some common injuries include rotator cuff tendonitis or tears, dislocations, and fractures—all of which cause serious pain and reduced function of your shoulder.

Whether you’re recovering from surgery—or hoping to avoid one—physiotherapy is an effective and personalised option that supports your healing journey. Unlike pain medication, physiotherapy aims to restore the natural mobility and strength of your shoulder—treating the cause of your pain at the source.

Here are five effective treatments your physiotherapist may use after assessing and diagnosing the cause of your shoulder pain or the extent of your injury.

1.  Mobility Exercises

Your physiotherapist will safely use a range of dynamic (movement) exercises—depending on your injury—that restore the normal movement and range of motion of your shoulder. These may feel uncomfortable as you work hard to overcome the stiffness of the joint, but you will notice increased flexibility after a few sessions. You’re in good hands.

2.  Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is a hands on form of treatment. Careful and firm movements help to reduce tension, encourage blood flow—which supports healing—and alleviate inflammation. Your physio will also ensure the correct alignment of your shoulder joint using pressure and careful manipulation—this reduces friction in the joint, relieves pain, and supports your overall recovery.

3.  Strengthening Exercises

Often, muscle weaknesses make injuries or joint misalignment more likely. You may develop temporary muscle weakness after an injury due to lack of use or pain inhibition of the muscles. You might also find that an existing weakness contributed to your injury or condition in the first place.

Your physiotherapist will teach you how to strengthen the muscles that support your shoulders and spine—to help you recover and prevent future injuries. Everyday movements like reaching overhead or lifting will become easier in time. Expect some homework!

4.  Stretches

In the same way that weak muscles can lead to injuries, tension can too! Your physiotherapist will teach you how to stretch your muscles to relieve stiffness and support the correct function of your shoulder. These are similar to mobility exercises but are usually static (unmoving). Again, you’ll need to practice these at home.

Tip: Avoid intense stretches without the advice of a professional depending on your injury or condition, you may do more harm than good!

5.  Posture Correction

What often gets ignored is your posture—but the position of your spine, arms, neck, and shoulders often plays a major role in causing and preventing injuries. Also, correct posture supports a healthy range of motion of your shoulder joints. Your physiotherapist will assess your standing, walking, and sitting posture and provide helpful tips on how to maintain a neutral spine.

Physiotherapy is so much more than pain relief—although that is a definite benefit! You’ll learn how to support your body, strengthen weak areas, encourage mobility (safely!), and take steps to prevent future injuries or discomfort. Some shoulder injuries may be complicated, but your recovery doesn’t have to be.

Our team at Turramurra Sports and Spinal Physiotherapy is ready to guide you through your recovery with confidence and care that supports your body’s natural healing potential. Contact us today to book your appointment.