Understanding Shoulder Pain

Expert Physiotherapy in Sutherland | Pontifex Physiotherapy

Shoulder pain can be frustrating, limiting, and even anxiety-inducing—especially when it starts interfering with work, sport, or sleep. At Pontifex Physiotherapy, our expert team uses a whole-body, evidence-based approach to not only relieve pain but uncover its root causes. Whether it’s a recent injury or long-standing discomfort, we’ll help you move better and feel more confident in your recovery.
👉 See how we treat injuries at Pontifex Physiotherapy

What Causes Shoulder Pain?

There are many reasons why your shoulder might hurt. Common causes include:

Rotator Cuff Injuries – These are some of the most frequent shoulder complaints, ranging from small strains to full-thickness tears. Learn how to rehab your rotator cuff and avoid surgery.
Shoulder Impingement – Caused by pinching of the rotator cuff tendons, often leading to pain with overhead movement. Try these shoulder impingement exercises to get started on your recovery.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – A condition marked by extreme stiffness and limited range of motion.
Arthritis – Degenerative changes in the shoulder joint that can limit mobility and cause persistent pain.
Post-surgical Recovery – If you’ve had a shoulder operation, our tailored rehab programs can help. Here’s the best way to recover after rotator cuff surgery.
Nerve-Related Pain – Pain that radiates from the neck or upper spine into the shoulder. We provide targeted nerve-related shoulder pain exercises.

Do You Need a Shoulder Injection?

Not sure whether you should get a cortisone injection? While some cases benefit, others do just as well—or better—with the right rehab approach. Here’s how to decide if a shoulder injection is right for you.

Our High-Level Care Approach

At Pontifex Physiotherapy, we focus on more than just the joint itself. Our team considers:

Local tissue healing – Muscle, tendon, joint, and nerve involvement
Whole-body mechanics – Thoracic mobility, shoulder blade control, posture
Lifestyle factors – Stress, load management, previous injuries, and beliefs about pain
Education & empowerment – So you feel in control of your recovery

Meet our expert physiotherapists who specialise in treating complex shoulder injuries and helping people return to sport, work, and daily life with confidence.

Rotator Cuff Tear? Don’t Panic.

Whether you’ve had a recent scan or are simply dealing with ongoing shoulder pain, this rotator cuff tear guide will help you understand what it means—and why surgery isn’t always necessary.

Your Path to a Stronger Shoulder Starts Here

Book your appointment and start moving forward—pain-free.
👉 Book Online Now

Clinic Details
📍 Shop 1B, 10-18 Robertson St, Sutherland NSW
📞 02 8515 0326