Shoulder Physiotherapy Brisbane
What Does Shoulder Physiotherapy Involve?
Shoulder physiotherapy is a specific type of physiotherapy which involves implementing various techniques to treat an injured or weak shoulder.Â
From everyday issues such as impingement due to poor posture, to serious injuries such as muscle tears or rotator cuff damage, shoulder physiotherapy aims to rehabilitate the affected shoulder by drawing on a range of scientifically proven techniques.Â
Our holistic approach is designed to speed up recovery times, with common ailments often able to be drastically improved within a few weeks. Serious injuries may require months of intensive therapy to restore full function to the shoulder.
Shoulder Rehabilitation After Surgery
Physiotherapy after shoulder surgery typically begins with very light exercises to keep the shoulder moving and avoid stiffness. The first few weeks are centered more around resting the shoulder to allow for recovery.Â
After 2-3 weeks, the exercises will slightly ramp up to light daily activities, aimed toward gradually regaining a full range of motion in the affected shoulder.Â
Recovery from shoulder surgery is inherently a lengthy process, and after 6-12 weeks you will need to consult with your physio to determine a tailored strengthening regimen.
How Your Treatment Works
Your treatment begins with a thorough initial assessment, where we identify the root cause of your shoulder pain and establish a personalised recovery plan. The first step is simple: a fulsome conversation to gain an understanding of your history, daily demands, and what you want to get back to doing, ensuring your treatment is tailored to your needs from day one.
Most patients attend sessions 1-2 times per week, with treatment drawing on techniques such as manual therapy, targeted exercise, and dry needling where appropriate. You will also be prescribed daily exercises to do between sessions.
Progress is reviewed at key milestones (the timeframes depend on the nature of your injury) with your program adjusted as you improve. The goal is measurable progress at every stage, whether that’s reduced pain, improved range of motion, or a return to full activity.
Why Choose PhysioPhi?
PhysioPhi brings an altogether more holistic and client-first approach than our competitors.
We understand that recovering from a shoulder injury can be immensely challenging. Knowing this, we aim to keep our clients informed, engaged and confident in their recovery plan.Â
By gathering key information about lifestyle, habits and injury background, we aim to treat the root causes of an injury, as well as alleviating the most acute symptoms. We back this up by staying heavily involved with our clients during every step of the recovery process to ensure long-term results.Â
In this way, our personable team of care professionals ensure that you get not only world-class care, but peace of mind along the way.
Shoulder Physiotherapy FAQs
How soon after shoulder surgery should I start physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy typically begins within 1-2 weeks of surgery, depending on the procedure and your surgeon’s guidance. Early movement helps prevent stiffness and support tissue healing, though initial sessions will be gentle and carefully controlled.
How long does shoulder physiotherapy take after surgery?
Most patients can expect a rehabilitation program lasting anywhere from 3 to 6 months, with sessions typically 1-2 times per week. Frequency tapers off as strength and function are restored.
What shoulder conditions can physiotherapy help with?
Shoulder physiotherapy can help with rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, impingement, dislocations, bursitis, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Whether your condition is acute or long-standing, physio can play a key role in restoring pain-free movement.
Do I need a referral to see a shoulder physiotherapist in Brisbane?
No referral is needed, you can contact PhysioPhi directly to get started. However, if you’re claiming through Medicare or workers’ compensation, a referral or care plan from your GP may be required.