Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages and lifestyles, from active gym-goers and tradies to desk-bound professionals and retirees. Whether it’s a sharp twinge when you lift your arm, a dull ache that disrupts sleep, or stiffness that makes daily tasks a chore, shoulder pain can significantly impact your quality of life. At Cairnhill Physiotherapy, we specialise in treating a wide range of shoulder injuries with hands-on care and evidence-based strategies to help you move with comfort and confidence again.
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Shoulder Conditions We Treat
Shoulder pain can arise from a range of conditions — some common, some rarer. At Cairnhill Physiotherapy, we regularly treat the following:
Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint. Bursitis often causes pain during overhead movements or when lying on the affected side.
Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition causes progressive stiffness and restricted motion, often without a clear cause. Pain is typically worse at rest and gradually leads to limited shoulder mobility.
Tears or inflammation in the rotator cuff muscles can result in weakness, difficulty lifting the arm, and aching that worsens with activity or at night.
Usually caused by trauma or falls, this occurs when the arm bone slips out of its socket. Without proper rehab, repeat dislocations and instability are common.
Characterised by a loose joint that may partially or fully dislocate, often affecting younger, active individuals. Left untreated, it can cause ongoing discomfort and functional problems.
This refers to pain beneath the acromion (top of the shoulder blade), often due to impingement where tendons or bursa become compressed.
Repetitive strain from activities like swimming, tennis, or even typing can lead to chronic inflammation and weakness. Overuse injuries develop slowly but can become debilitating if ignored.
Prolonged poor posture, especially rounded shoulders and forward head positioning, can alter joint alignment and muscle balance, leading to ongoing pain and restricted movement.
Meet Harley
Harley has worked as a physiotherapist since 2007, with a strong background in complex injury management and rehabilitation. He offers a ‘hands on’ approach to a wide range of injuries, including rotator cuff problems, frozen shoulder and post-surgical shoulder recovery.
Read more about Harley
Why Choose Cairnhill Physiotherapy
Shoulder pain rarely resolves with a generic exercise sheet. Here’s how we approach it.
They’re brilliant when they work well, and deeply frustrating when they don’t. At Cairnhill Physiotherapy, we know how easily a small problem can turn into a full-blown limitation, and how much shoulder pain can impact everything from dressing in the morning to sleeping at night.
Our team of experienced physio combines clinical insight with hands-on care to get to the root of your shoulder pain and build a plan that actually works. Whether you’re dealing with a rotator cuff injury, frozen shoulder, or that mysterious ache that’s been hanging around for months, we dig deeper to understand what’s really going on.
We guide you through every stage: from pain relief and movement restoration to building shoulder strength and confidence for the long haul. No rushed appointments, no copy-paste treatment plans, just real results tailored to real life.
Physio Approaches for Shoulder Pain
At Cairnhill Physiotherapy, we take a tailored approach to managing shoulder pain, focusing on restoring mobility, reducing discomfort, and strengthening the joint. Our custom treatment plans will include one or more of the below:
Manual Therapy
Using joint mobilisations and soft tissue techniques, we aim to relieve pain, reduce stiffness, and restore functional movement in the shoulder. Hands-on treatment can improve alignment and increase range of motion in even the stiffest joints.
Exercise Prescription
We provide progressive, tailored physio exercises for shoulder pain, designed to strengthen the rotator cuff, improve scapular control, and support overall joint stability. These exercises are gradually increased in difficulty as your shoulder improves.
Postural Education
Poor posture can put strain on the neck and shoulders, especially in those who sit at a desk for long periods. We teach posture correction and ergonomic strategies to prevent pain from recurring.
Massage Therapy
Our physiotherapists also offer targeted massage therapy for shoulder pain to ease muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and support circulation in the healing process.
Shoulder Rehabilitation and Strengthening
Once pain is under control, building strength and restoring full function is the next step. Shoulder rehabilitation is crucial for preventing re-injury and ensuring the joint can handle everyday activities and sport-specific movements.
We incorporate shoulder strengthening exercises into your programme, targeting the muscles that support the joint, particularly the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers. Improved muscle support helps protect the joint from future strain and improves endurance.
Scapular mobility is another essential focus. The shoulder blade plays a key role in how the shoulder moves, and dysfunction in this area can lead to impingement or pain. Through guided scapular mobility drills and control exercises, we ensure the shoulder moves smoothly and efficiently.
Each rehab plan includes physio exercises for shoulder pain that match your activity level and recovery goals. Whether you’re returning to sport, lifting your toddler, or just wanting to sleep without pain, we’ll get you there with a smart, structured plan.
Need Help with Shoulder Pain?
If shoulder pain is slowing you down, it’s time to take the first step. Book a full physiotherapy assessment at Cairnhill Physiotherapy and get a personalised treatment plan designed to restore movement and relieve pain.
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Other Services
Explore the rest of our physiotherapy services at the Epsom clinic.
Rehabilitation
Personalised pre- and post-operative programmes that restore and strengthen your movement.
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Acupuncture
Used alongside physiotherapy to help manage pain, muscle tightness, swelling and restricted movement.
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Massage
Relaxation, therapeutic, sports and pregnancy massage, including neuromuscular work.
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Pilates
Physio-led reformer Pilates sessions for every ability, from rehab to general strength.
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A well-equipped rehabilitation gym to rehabilitate you from injury or prepare you for surgery.
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