Shoulder pain can interfere with daily life—from brushing your hair to lifting groceries. Two common causes are shoulder impingement and rotator cuff injuries. These conditions affect millions of people each year, especially athletes and older adults. The good news? Physiotherapy offers effective, non-surgical solutions that can reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent future injuries.
In this blog, we’ll explore how physiotherapy helps treat shoulder impingement and rotator cuff injuries, the signs and symptoms to watch for, and what to expect during treatment.
What Is Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons or bursa (a fluid-filled sac) in your shoulder are compressed or “pinched” by surrounding bones during arm movement. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and limited motion.
Common Causes of Shoulder Impingement
Repetitive overhead movements (e.g., swimming, painting, tennis)
Poor posture
Weak or imbalanced shoulder muscles
Bone spurs
Signs and Symptoms
Pain when lifting your arm
Difficulty reaching behind your back
Shoulder weakness
Pain that worsens at night
What Is a Rotator Cuff Injury?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of motion. Injuries may involve inflammation (tendinitis), tears, or strains.
Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries
Sudden trauma (like a fall)
Repetitive use or overuse
Age-related wear and tear
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury
Dull ache in the shoulder
Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
Crackling sensation during movement
Limited range of motion
How Physiotherapy Helps With Shoulder Injuries
Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
A physiotherapist will begin by performing a detailed physical examination and taking a complete health history. They may use clinical tests to assess strength, range of motion, and joint function.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Each person is different. A custom physiotherapy plan will be developed based on your specific injury, lifestyle, and goals.
Pain Management Techniques
Manual therapy to release tight tissues
Ice or heat application
Electrical stimulation (e.g., TENS)
Ultrasound therapy
Restoring Strength and Mobility
Strengthening and stretching exercises are core components of recovery.
Stretching exercises improve flexibility
Strength exercises target rotator cuff muscles and scapular stabilizers
Postural correction helps reduce shoulder strain
Education and Prevention
A physiotherapist educates you on proper mechanics, posture, and ergonomic adjustments to prevent recurrence.
Sample Physiotherapy Exercises for Shoulder Recovery
Pendulum Stretch
Let your arm hang and swing it in small circles. This gentle motion helps reduce stiffness.
Wall Angels
Stand with your back against a wall and slowly raise your arms in a “snow angel” motion to improve shoulder mobility.
Scapular Squeezes
Squeeze shoulder blades together to strengthen postural muscles.
Always consult your physiotherapist before starting any exercises.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Shoulder Impingement and Rotator Cuff Injuries
Non-invasive pain relief
Improved mobility and function
Strengthened shoulder and back muscles
Decreased risk of re-injury
Better posture and body mechanics
FAQ: Physiotherapy for Shoulder Injuries
How long does it take to recover from shoulder impingement?
Recovery varies, but many patients see improvement in 6–12 weeks with consistent physiotherapy.
Can physiotherapy heal a torn rotator cuff without surgery?
Small to moderate tears can often be managed with physiotherapy alone. Severe tears may need surgery.
Is it safe to exercise with shoulder impingement?
Yes, but exercises should be tailored and supervised by a physiotherapist to avoid aggravation.
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist in British Columbia?
No referral is needed. You can book an appointment directly with a physiotherapist.
Why Choose Pitt Meadows Physiotherapy Clinic?
At Pitt Meadows Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, we specialize in treating shoulder injuries with personalized care and evidence-based methods. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you return to the activities you love—pain-free.
We also treat:
Sports injuries
Post-surgical rehab
Motor vehicle accident injuries
Chronic pain
Book your consultation today by calling (604) 465-8733 or visiting our contact page.
Final Thoughts
Shoulder injuries can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be permanent. With the right physiotherapy approach, you can reduce pain, restore movement, and regain strength. Whether you're dealing with shoulder impingement or a rotator cuff injury, starting physiotherapy early makes all the difference.
Take the first step toward recovery today.
Call Pitt Meadows Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic at (604) 465-8733 or visit www.pittmeadowsphysio.ca to book an appointment.
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We provide same-day physiotherapy appointments for healthcare workers, first responders, and seniors. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team has been delivering high-quality care since 1991. We proudly serve residents of Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and Langley, helping individuals recover from a wide range of injuries. We are available six days a week to accommodate your needs.
Email: pittmeadowsphysio@gmail.com
Phone: (604) 465-8733
Address: 19133 Ford Road Pitt Meadows, BC, V3Y 2R5 Canada
Website: https://www.pittmeadowsphysio.ca/contact-us
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