Shoulder Physiotherapy & Shoulder Physio Melbourne
Step one: Do you need to see a Shoulder Physio?
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If you’ve recently hurt your shoulder doing yoga with your Siamese cat, playing park kick to kick after a couple of vino’s or doing the worm at a wedding and there is specific pain in the shoulder, or you’ve lost function or strength. Then it’s best to come see one of us. Even if it’s just to clear it. Our Shoulder Physio will help you in your quest to recover.
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Shoulder pain can develop due to various damn frustrating factors, and it often results from issues within the structures of the shoulder joint and surrounding areas (upper back, neck, chest ect). The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile and complex joints in the body, allowing for a wide range of movements. This complexity also makes it susceptible to injury and pain.
If you’ve had a niggle for a few weeks in a specific spot in your shoulder and it hasn’t gone away. Maybe if anything it’s getting more noticeable. Then we need to see you for Shoulder Physio. These small issues can cause long-term damage to your body (and soul).
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You my friend, need to get your butt in here asap and see one a Shoulder Physio. There’s no point having surgery if you don’t do rehabilitation. Who said that you ask? Moses or Confucius did. Surgery without Physiotherapy is like Melbourne without hail in the summer.
We work with all major shoulder surgeons in Melbourne and can help you recover with a long term plan whilst we communicate with your surgeon to keep them updated of your progress.
If you fit into any, or multiple categories here, continue to step two below. If you fit into all three, lord have mercy.
Step two: Book in to see a Shoulder Physio
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Book an Online face to face 45-minute session with a Shoulder Physio at our Physiotherapy clinic. Your Shoulder Physiotherapist will talk to you, ask you questions, look at the issue, quickly discuss the weather, palpate and feel around the shoulder, give hands-on initial treatment, if they believe it will help, your Shoulder Physio will diagnose the issue for you and build a plan long term to get you pain-free and firing on all cylinders.
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You can book here or using the button below. We have Shoulder physio’s working at varying hours. We are popular so sometimes you will have to book in advance, but if you’re in severe pain, give us a call at (03) 9100 3798, and we will try to fit you in.
Melbourne Shoulder Group Team is here
We have a price page here
However, Initial face-to-face Shoulder Physio Assessments are $175
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Do you want to come in and think less about it?
We have the following shoulder packages, where you can purchase a starter pack to get you going in the right direction.
These packs include an Initial Assessment, follow-up consultations, one on one rehabilitation, an at-home recovery pack, and some group classes for our Rehabilitation classes with a Shoulder Physio.
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By Far, the Easiest way is to Book Online via the button below. You can find a time, see the teeth of the practitioner you like, and organise the session to suit you.
If you’d like to call, you can do so on the telephone, (03) 9100 3798, although we manage our own phone. We don’t have any cold reception staff. So if we don’t pick up, it’s because we’re treating. We’ll get back to you if you leave a message.
Alternatively, if there are no times that fit you. Send us an email at info@evolutio.com.au and we’ll give you a callback asap to have a chat
Once you’ve booked in, continue to step three. If you haven’t booked, go back to step two, rinse and repeat
Step Three: Come in for your Initial Shoulder Physiotherapy session
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Once you’ve booked in, you’ll receive a confirmation email. In this email, we will give you our secret location.
We’ll also send you a link where you can fill in some more information that your Shoulder Physio will only see.
You’ll find our Shoulder Physio clinic in a set of office units on the corner of Bromham Place in Richmond. From outside, there is a blue Evolutio sign outside our door.
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You’ll think you’ve walked into the set of when Harry met Sally. Our clinic waiting room is here to your left. A large wooden table that we made from reclaimed wood. Have a seat here and your Physio will be with you shortly.
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You can expect that you’ll feel comfortable, there might be unique trip hop music in the background, but we are a highly experienced Shoulder Physio team, who can help you in your recovery from varying sports and high level activities.
We’ll Utilise Our 80 square metre Gym, VALD Testing Equipment, Our minds, and Moccomaster coffee machine to look after you.
Step Four: After your Shoulder Physiotherapy Session
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Elated, Ecstatic, Euphoric. In all seriousness, you should feel supported, listened to, and understood by your shoulder physio, furthermore, you should have a clear understanding of what’s happened or what is going to happen moving forward with your shoulder rehab.
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You’ll receive an email from your Shoulder Physiotherapist within two days of your appointment, with a summary of the session, what they found, a diagnosis if it’s possible this early on (sometimes this is tough after one session), and a plan to get you better, with what you need to do, how often you will need to come in and a timeframe for when we think you will be better.
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If you have any questions at all. It’s best to email your melbourneshoulder physio directly. They will help clear that up, if you weren’t happy or completely satisfied, feel free to touch base with Phill via phill@evolutio.com.au to raise any concerns you have about your session.
What are the Common Shoulder Injuries that Shoulder Physiotherapy can help?
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The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their corresponding tendons that play a crucial role in stabilizing and facilitating movement in the shoulder joint. These muscles and tendons work together to allow the shoulder to perform a wide range of motions, such as lifting, rotating, and reaching.
The four muscles of the rotator cuff are:
Supraspinatus: This muscle is located on the top of the shoulder blade (scapula) and runs underneath the acromion, which is a bony prominence on the scapula. The supraspinatus muscle helps with initiating the abduction (lifting away from the body) of the arm.
Infraspinatus: Positioned on the back of the scapula, the infraspinatus muscle aids in the external rotation of the arm.
Teres minor: Situated beneath the infraspinatus, the teres minor muscle also assists in the external rotation of the arm.
Subscapularis: This muscle is located on the front of the scapula and facilitates the internal rotation of the arm.
The tendons of these muscles blend together to form a "cuff" that surrounds the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) and helps hold it firmly within the shallow socket of the scapula, known as the glenoid. The rotator cuff not only stabilizes the shoulder joint but also provides dynamic control during arm movements.
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Rotator cuff tendinitis, also known as shoulder impingement syndrome or rotator cuff tendonitis, is a common condition that involves inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the rotator cuff of the shoulder. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) and their corresponding tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These tendons help stabilize the shoulder and facilitate its movement.
Rotator cuff tendinitis usually occurs due to repetitive overhead arm movements, excessive use of the shoulder, or traumatic injuries. The repetitive motions can cause wear and tear on the tendons, leading to inflammation and irritation. Athletes, especially those involved in sports like tennis, swimming, baseball, and weightlifting, are particularly susceptible to this condition. It can also result from age-related degeneration of the tendons.
Common symptoms of rotator cuff tendinitis include:
Shoulder pain: The primary symptom is pain in the front or side of the shoulders. The pain may be a dull ache or a sharp, intense pain, and it often worsens with overhead activities or movements.
Weakness: Weakening of the shoulder muscles can occur due to the inflammation and discomfort, leading to difficulty with certain movements.
Limited range of motion: Inflammation of the tendons can restrict the shoulder's range of motion, making it difficult to lift the arm fully.
Pain at night: Some individuals may experience increased pain at night, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder.
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Shoulder bursitis, Shoulder bursitis, also known as subacromial bursitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bursa located in the shoulder joint. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between tendons, muscles, and bones, reducing friction during movement. In the shoulder, there are several bursae, but subacromial bursitis specifically refers to inflammation of the bursa located between the top of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the acromion, which is a bony projection of the scapula (shoulder blade).
The inflammation of the subacromial bursa can be caused by repetitive overhead arm movements, excessive use of the shoulder joint, or direct trauma to the area. This can lead to swelling and pain in the affected shoulder.
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Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain and stiffness. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, called the shoulder capsule, becomes thickened, inflamed, and tight. As a result, the shoulder joint's range of motion becomes significantly limited.
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Various forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the shoulder joint and cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
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Shoulder impingement, also known as subacromial impingement, is a condition that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff and the subacromial bursa (a fluid-filled sac) become compressed or pinched between the bones of the shoulder joint. This compression happens mainly in the subacromial space, which is the narrow gap between the top of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the acromion, which is a bony projection of the scapula (shoulder blade).
Shoulder impingement can develop due to various reasons, and it is commonly associated with repetitive overhead arm movements or activities that put stress on the shoulder joint. It is a common problem in athletes involved in sports like swimming, baseball, tennis, and weightlifting, as well as individuals with jobs that require frequent overhead movements.
The main causes of shoulder impingement include:
Anatomical factors: Some individuals may have a naturally narrow subacromial space, making them more prone to impingement.
Overuse or repetitive motions: Activities that involve repetitive overhead movements, such as throwing, lifting, or reaching, can strain the rotator cuff tendons and bursa, leading to inflammation and swelling.
Shoulder instability: If the shoulder joint is unstable or not properly stabilized by the surrounding muscles, it can increase the risk of impingement.
Bone spurs: Over time, bone spurs (small outgrowths of bone) can develop on the acromion, narrowing the subacromial space and causing impingement.
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Traumatic shoulder instability: This type of instability usually results from a sudden injury, such as a fall, a direct blow to the shoulder, or a forceful impact during sports or accidents. In traumatic shoulder instability, the shoulder joint may partially or completely dislocate, causing significant pain and limited movement. After an episode of dislocation, the supporting structures (such as ligaments, tendons, and the joint capsule) may become stretched or torn, leading to recurrent instability if not properly treated.
Atraumatic shoulder instability: Atraumatic instability occurs without any apparent traumatic event. Instead, it is often caused by repetitive overuse of the shoulder joint, especially in sports or activities that involve frequent overhead motions. Atraumatic instability may be related to laxity (looseness) in the joint capsule and ligaments, making the shoulder more prone to recurrent subluxation (partial dislocation) or dislocation.
Symptoms of shoulder instability may include:
Feeling of shoulder "giving way": Individuals with shoulder instability may experience a sensation that the shoulder is slipping out of place or giving way during certain movements.
Recurrent dislocations: In cases of significant instability, the shoulder joint may dislocate partially or completely, and these dislocations may recur, especially in traumatic instability.
Pain and discomfort: Shoulder instability can be associated with pain, especially during movements that stress the joint.
Weakness and reduced range of motion: Instability may lead to weakness in the shoulder and limited ability to perform certain activities.
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Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a condition that occurs when there is compression or irritation of the nerves and blood vessels that pass through the thoracic outlet—a narrow space between the base of the neck and the armpit. The thoracic outlet is formed by the first rib, clavicle (collarbone), and various muscles and soft tissues in the shoulder region.
There are three main types of thoracic outlet syndrome:
Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This is the most common type of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, and it involves compression or irritation of the brachial plexus—a bundle of nerves that originates from the spinal cord in the neck and supplies the arm. Neurogenic TOS can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arm, hand, and fingers.
Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Vascular TOS occurs when the blood vessels that pass through the thoracic outlet, including the subclavian artery or vein, become compressed or restricted. This can lead to symptoms such as arm swelling, discoloration, and pain, especially with arm movement.
Non-specific or Disputed TOS: Some cases of TOS may not fit precisely into the neurogenic or vascular categories, and the symptoms may be less clearly defined or more complex. These cases are sometimes referred to as non-specific or disputed TOS.
The causes of thoracic outlet syndrome can vary and may include:
Anatomical variations: Some individuals may have a narrower thoracic outlet or abnormal structures in the region, making them more prone to compression of nerves and blood vessels.
Repetitive movements or poor posture: Activities or occupations that involve repetitive overhead arm movements or poor posture can contribute to muscle imbalances and compression of the thoracic outlet.
Trauma: Injuries, such as car accidents or falls, can lead to compression or damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet.
Muscle or bone abnormalities: Enlargement of certain muscles or the presence of an extra cervical rib can cause compression in the thoracic outlet.
The symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome can vary depending on the specific structures affected but often include:
Pain or aching in the neck, shoulder, and arm.
Numbness or tingling in the arm or fingers.
Weakness in the arm or hand.
Swelling or discoloration of the arm.
Coldness in the hand or fingers.
Should I see a Shoulder Physio?
Seeing a shoulder physiotherapist can be highly beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, if you're experiencing shoulder pain, seeking professional help to diagnose the underlying cause is essential. Shoulder pain can result from various issues, including muscle strains, rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, or even structural problems within the joint. A shoulder physiotherapist is trained to perform a thorough assessment, identify the root cause of your pain, and develop a tailored treatment plan to address it effectively.
Secondly, shoulder physiotherapy can significantly improve your quality of life. Whether you have acute or chronic shoulder pain, reduced range of motion, or weakness in your shoulder, a physiotherapist can provide specialised exercises and manual techniques to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and strengthen the shoulder muscles. This can help you regain function and return to your daily activities, whether lifting objects, playing sports or simply reaching overhead without discomfort.
Lastly, a shoulder physiotherapist can offer preventive care and guidance. They can teach you proper posture, ergonomics, and techniques to prevent future shoulder issues. This is particularly important if you have a physically demanding job or engage in activities that strain your shoulders. By addressing current problems and learning how to protect your shoulder health, you can enjoy a better quality of life and reduce the risk of future pain and injuries. In summary, seeing a shoulder physiotherapist is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term shoulder health, whether you're currently experiencing pain or want to prevent it in the future.
What does a shoulder physiotherapist do for shoulder pain?
A shoulder physiotherapist can provide invaluable assistance in managing and resolving shoulder issues. Firstly, they offer expert assessment and diagnosis of your shoulder condition. Through thorough physical examinations and, if necessary, advanced imaging techniques, they can pinpoint the underlying cause of your shoulder pain or dysfunction. This precise diagnosis forms the basis for a tailored treatment plan that addresses your needs and ensures you receive the most effective care.
Secondly, a shoulder physiotherapist can guide you through comprehensive rehabilitation. They will employ a range of evidence-based techniques, including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities such as heat or cold treatment, to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and restore strength and stability in your shoulder. Their expertise also extends to post-operative rehabilitation, ensuring optimal recovery following shoulder surgery.
Lastly, a shoulder physiotherapist at the Melbourne Shoulder group is pivotal in patient education and preventive care. They will educate you about your shoulder condition, helping you understand its underlying causes and teaching you strategies to manage it effectively. This includes guidance on posture correction, ergonomics, and exercises you can perform at home to maintain shoulder health and prevent future issues. Overall, a shoulder physiotherapist in Melbourne offers a holistic approach to shoulder care, combining accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment, and patient empowerment to help you achieve optimal shoulder function and well-being.
How many Shoulder Physio sessions for Shoulder pain?
The number of shoulder physiotherapy sessions required for shoulder pain can vary widely depending on several factors, including the underlying cause and severity of the pain, your overall health, how well you respond to treatment, and your adherence to the recommended exercises and home care. Typically, a physiotherapist will conduct an initial assessment to determine your specific needs and create a treatment plan tailored to your condition. Based on this assessment, they can provide an estimate of the number of sessions required.
In many cases, individuals with shoulder pain may benefit from an initial series of physiotherapy sessions, typically ranging from 6 to 12 sessions spread out over a few weeks. These sessions focus on addressing acute pain, improving range of motion, and providing guidance on home exercises and pain management strategies. The frequency of these sessions may decrease as your condition improves.
For more chronic or complex shoulder issues, a more extended course of physiotherapy may be necessary. This could involve several months of regular sessions, often followed by a transition to a maintenance or self-management program.
It's important to note that everyone's response to physiotherapy is unique, so the number of sessions required can vary. It's crucial to follow the guidance of your physiotherapist and attend all recommended sessions to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment. Additionally, your physiotherapist will continuously assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Ultimately, the goal of physiotherapy is to help you regain optimal shoulder function and manage or eliminate your pain.
Is Shoulder Physiotherapy good for Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder Physiotherapy is the best health modality and treatment for addressing shoulder pain for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it provides a holistic approach to shoulder pain management. Physiotherapists are skilled at diagnosing the root causes of shoulder pain, ranging from muscle imbalances and soft tissue injuries to joint instability or postural issues. By identifying these underlying factors, physiotherapists can develop customised treatment plans that alleviate pain and target the problem's source, promoting long-term recovery and improved shoulder function.
Secondly, shoulder physiotherapy offers many evidence-based interventions to relieve shoulder pain. This includes manual techniques such as joint mobilisations and soft tissue manipulation, modalities like heat or cold therapy, and therapeutic exercises designed to strengthen weakened muscles and improve flexibility. These interventions are selected based on the individual's condition, ensuring that treatment is tailored to the specific needs and limitations of the patient. Shoulder Physiotherapists also play a crucial role in guiding patients through a progressive rehabilitation process, monitoring their progress, and making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan as the shoulder heals.
Lastly, shoulder physiotherapy emphasises patient education and empowerment. A fundamental aspect of shoulder physiotherapy is teaching patients how to manage their shoulder pain independently and prevent its recurrence. Patients learn valuable techniques for maintaining good posture, performing exercises at home, and making lifestyle modifications that support their shoulder health. This educational component equips individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to take an active role in their recovery, fostering a sense of control and confidence in managing their shoulder pain over the long term. In summary, shoulder physiotherapy's comprehensive approach, diverse treatment options, and patient-centred focus make it a highly practical choice for managing and resolving shoulder pain.