Physiotherapy for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can limit your ability to perform everyday activities like reaching, lifting, and sleeping comfortably. Physiotherapy effectively treats most shoulder conditions through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and activity modification.

Recovery Time

6-16 weeks for most conditions (frozen shoulder may take longer)

Sessions Needed

8-16 sessions typically

Specialties

Shoulder, Sports Rehab, Posture

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain

•Pain when raising the arm
•Night pain affecting sleep
•Weakness when lifting objects
•Stiffness and reduced range of motion
•Clicking or catching sensations
•Pain radiating down the arm

Common Causes

•Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears
•Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
•Shoulder impingement
•Bursitis
•Shoulder instability or dislocation
•Arthritis
•Poor posture and muscle imbalances

Physiotherapy Treatment

Physiotherapy is highly effective for shoulder pain. Treatment typically includes:

✓Rotator cuff strengthening
✓Scapular stabilization exercises
✓Manual therapy and joint mobilization
✓Postural correction
✓Activity and load modification
✓Progressive loading programs
✓Pre and post-surgical rehabilitation

Recommended Exercises

These exercises may help with shoulder pain. Consult a physiotherapist before starting:

Pendulum exercises

External and internal rotation strengthening

Scapular squeezes and rows

Wall slides

Shoulder flexion exercises

Stretches for the posterior capsule

Important: These are general guidelines. Your physiotherapist will create a personalized exercise program based on your specific condition and needs.

When to See a Physiotherapist

Consider booking an appointment if you experience:

!Pain that prevents sleeping
!Sudden weakness after an injury
!Unable to raise arm above shoulder height
!Pain persisting more than 2 weeks
!Shoulder that dislocates repeatedly
!Pain with numbness or tingling in the arm

Specialists for Shoulder Pain

Dr. Ananya Rao

PT, MPT (Ortho) - Hitech City, Hyderabad

₹799 / session

⭐ 4.9 - 214 reviews

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09:0010:3014:0018:30View Profile

Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Pain

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a condition where the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and stiff. It typically goes through freezing (2-9 months), frozen (4-12 months), and thawing (5-24 months) phases. Physiotherapy can significantly speed recovery and reduce pain throughout the process.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for your specific condition. If you experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical care.

Last reviewed by PhysioHive Medical Board - February 2025