Conditions we treat
Shoulder & Arm Pain Physiotherapy in Brookvale
Shoulder and arm pain can affect everything from lifting and reaching to working, exercising and everyday activities. From rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulder to tennis elbow and tendon problems, we assess and treat a wide range of conditions to help reduce pain, restore movement and rebuild strength.
- Brookvale4/42-46 Wattle Road, Brookvale NSW 2100
- Terrey Hills · Wednesdays17 Yulong Avenue, Terrey Hills NSW 2084
- No referral required
- One-on-one with a physiotherapist
- Assessment before any exercise plan
Understanding it
Shoulder & arm conditions we see
Shoulder and arm pain can develop gradually through repetitive activities and loading, or occur suddenly following an injury. Symptoms can affect the shoulder, upper arm, elbow and forearm, sometimes making everyday movements uncomfortable or difficult.
Whether you’re struggling to lift your arm, experiencing pain during gym training or dealing with persistent elbow pain, we tailor treatment and rehabilitation to your symptoms, activity levels and goals.
Common shoulder & arm conditions
- Rotator cuff tears and injuries
- Shoulder bursitis and tendon pain
- Shoulder ‘impingement’
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Shoulder instability and dislocations
- AC joint injuries
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylalgia)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylalgia)
- Shoulder and arm pain following fractures or surgery
Why it happens
What contributes to shoulder & arm pain?
Repetitive activities and loading
Repeated lifting, reaching, overhead activities and gripping can place increased demands on the shoulder, elbow and surrounding tendons.
Strength and movement control
Reduced strength, endurance or movement control around the shoulder blade, rotator cuff and arm can affect how the shoulder and arm manage everyday and sporting activities.
Sudden injury or overload
Falls, lifting heavy objects, or sudden increases in your gym training or activity can result in muscle strains or tendon injuries.
Work and lifestyle demands
Repetitive manual work, prolonged computer use and activities involving sustained or repeated arm movements can contribute to ongoing symptoms.
Previous injuries and age-related changes
Previous shoulder or arm injuries, as well as changes in tendons and joints over time, can influence strength, mobility and how well the area tolerates physical demands.
How physiotherapy can help
How we assess and treat shoulder & arm pain
- AssessmentWe discuss your history, symptoms, daily activities and goals, then assess your shoulder and arm movement, mobility and strength. We’ll also assess and identify other factors that may be contributing to your symptoms.
- Manage symptomsHands-on treatment, targeted exercises and practical advice help reduce pain, improve movement and restore function. We’ll also guide you on modifying activities where needed while symptoms settle.
- Build strength and restore functionProgressive strengthening and rehabilitation help improve shoulder stability, tendon capacity and arm function. Exercises are tailored to your needs, whether that’s returning to the gym, playing sport or managing everyday activities comfortably.
Care at Solevo
Services that can help
Pre and Post Surgery Rehab
Rehab before and after surgery, following your surgeon's plan.
Safety first
When to see a GP or seek urgent care
- Sudden severe shoulder pain following an injury, particularly if you cannot move your arm
- An obvious shoulder deformity or suspected dislocation
- Significant swelling or bruising following an injury
- New or worsening numbness, tingling or weakness in the arm or hand
- A hot, red or swollen shoulder accompanied by fever or feeling unwell
- Shoulder or arm pain accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea or dizziness
Shoulder or arm pain accompanied by chest pain, breathlessness or other possible cardiac symptoms requires emergency assessment. Call 000.
FAQs
What to expect from shoulder & arm physiotherapy
Scans?
Most conditions can initially be assessed through a clinical examination without requiring imaging. If further investigation is needed, we’ll guide you on whether an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI may be appropriate.
Movement?
Keeping the shoulder and arm moving within comfortable limits is generally encouraged. We’ll help you understand which movements and activities to modify and how to gradually restore your movement.
Time frame?
Recovery varies depending on the condition, severity and duration of symptoms. Some problems improve over several months, while others require longer rehabilitation.
At home
You’ll leave with practical advice and exercises to help manage your symptoms, maintain movement and build strength between appointments.
Clinically reviewed by Emma Docker, Physiotherapist. Last reviewed November 2026.