Make your assessment practical
Show us the movement.
Think of the movement that is hardest – reaching a high shelf, doing up a seatbelt or lifting at work – so we can assess it directly.
About shoulder pain
The shoulder is a mobile joint supported by muscles and tendons, including the rotator cuff. Pain can follow an injury or a change in activity, or come on gradually. Some people develop marked stiffness, which is sometimes described as frozen shoulder.
Pain felt in the shoulder can occasionally come from the neck, so your assessment may include nearby areas.
What happens at your appointment
We discuss your symptoms and health history, then assess movement and strength of the shoulder, neck and upper back. You will receive an explanation of the findings and the options available, including whether a GP review or imaging may be appropriate.
Care options we may discuss
- Exercises for strength, control and range of movement.
- Advice on sleeping positions, work tasks and activity.
- Hands-on treatment where appropriate and agreed with you.
- Progress reviews and plan adjustments.
Shoulder conditions can take time; the number of appointments depends on your needs and response.
When to seek medical help first
Seek urgent care for shoulder or arm pain with chest pain, shortness of breath or sweating, or after a fall where the shoulder looks deformed or you cannot move the arm.
Physiotherapy is not an emergency service. Call 000 or go to an emergency department for a serious injury, chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you feel very unwell. See your GP promptly if pain follows a fall or accident, keeps getting worse, wakes you every night, or comes with fever, unexplained weight loss or other new symptoms.
Your physiotherapy appointment.
See Jency Donda, physiotherapist, at our Elizabeth Park clinic – open Mondays 9:00am–5:00pm. No referral is needed for a private appointment. For a GP care plan, NDIS, DVA, Support at Home or WorkCover appointment, check the relevant referral and plan information and our fees and rebates page before booking.
Helpful questions.
Can I have physio after shoulder surgery?
Yes. Bring your surgeon’s protocol and discharge information; see rehabilitation after surgery.
My shoulder hurts at night. Is that normal?
Night pain is common with some shoulder problems. Mention it at your assessment; if it is severe or comes with other symptoms, see your GP.
Is this covered by WorkCover?
If your injury is part of an accepted ReturnToWorkSA claim, physiotherapy may be covered. Read our WorkCover page before booking.
More information: healthdirect: shoulder pain. This page is general information and is not a substitute for individual advice.
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