Shoulder Pain Physiotherapy
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body — which also makes it one of the most prone to injury and irritation. At The Body Lab, we regularly help people who can't lift their arm overhead, can't sleep on one side, or feel a catch or pinch every time they reach, train, or lift.
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Rotator cuff strain, tendinopathy, or tears
Shoulder impingement (pain with overhead movement)
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) — stiffness and pain that develops gradually
Instability or previous dislocation
AC joint sprain, often from a fall or direct impact
Referred pain from the neck or upper back
Overuse from training (common in BJJ, rugby, swimming, and gym-based sports)
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Pain with overhead reaching, lifting, or throwing
A dull ache that disturbs sleep, especially lying on the affected side
Weakness when lifting or carrying
Clicking, catching, or a feeling of instability
Stiffness that limits how far the arm can move
Pain radiating down the arm
How Physiotherapy Helps
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The shoulder is complex, and pain in one spot can come from several different structures. We use specific tests to work out exactly what's irritated and why.
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Manual therapy and dry needling to reduce pain and muscle guarding, and restore range of motion faster.
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Rotator cuff and scapular control work, built up in stages so the shoulder can tolerate real-world and sporting demands again — not just band exercises in isolation.
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For our BJJ, rugby, and gym clients in particular, we build rehab around the actual positions and loads your shoulder needs to handle, not a generic protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Long-standing shoulder pain, including frozen shoulder, still responds well to the right assessment and rehab, though it may take a bit longer to resolve than a recent injury.
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Often yes, with modifications. Part of our job is helping you stay active safely while we fix the underlying issue.
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Yes — this is an area of particular focus, including for BJJ and rugby athletes managing overhead and contact-related shoulder demands.
Ready to Move Your Shoulder Without Pain?
Get a clear diagnosis and a plan built for your goals — whether that's getting back on the mats, back in the gym, or just sleeping through the night again.