Shoulder injuries are common in athletes across many sports. Whether you’re a swimmer, tennis player, weightlifter, or rugby player, your shoulders endure constant stress. Overuse, repetitive movements, poor technique, and sudden impacts can all contribute to pain and dysfunction. A shoulder physiotherapist can help you regain mobility, strengthen the joint, and prevent long-term damage.
Without proper treatment, minor discomfort can turn into chronic pain or even joint instability. Shoulder injuries can limit performance and daily activities, making early intervention essential.
This article explores common shoulder injuries in sports, physiotherapy treatment options, and key recovery strategies.
Common Shoulder Injuries in Sports
Athletes frequently suffer shoulder injuries due to the joint’s high mobility and dependence on muscles and ligaments for stability. Below are some of the most common injuries seen in sports.
1. Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint. Overuse, repetitive overhead motions, and trauma can lead to tears in the tendons, causing pain and weakness.
Symptoms:
- Shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm.
- Weakness in the affected shoulder.
- Clicking or popping sounds during movement.
Partial tears may heal with physiotherapy, while complete tears may require surgery.
2. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Impingement occurs when soft tissues (rotator cuff tendons or bursa) get pinched between bones in the shoulder. This is common in swimmers, tennis players, and weightlifters.
Symptoms:
- Sharp pain when reaching overhead.
- Weakness or difficulty lifting objects.
- Pain that worsens at night.
Physiotherapy corrects muscle imbalances and movement patterns, allowing pain-free mobility.
Read more about recovering from shoulder injuries after sports.
3. Shoulder Dislocations and Subluxations
A dislocation happens when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket. A subluxation is a partial dislocation where the joint shifts but doesn’t fully separate. These injuries often happen in contact sports like rugby, football, and basketball.
Symptoms:
- Intense pain and swelling.
- Visible deformity or asymmetry in the shoulder.
- Weakness and instability.
Once a shoulder has dislocated, it’s more likely to happen again without strength training and rehabilitation.
4. AC Joint Injuries (Separated Shoulder)
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint connects the collarbone to the top of the shoulder blade. A direct fall onto the shoulder—common in cycling, rugby, and snowboarding—can cause injury.
Symptoms:
- Localised pain and swelling on top of the shoulder.
- A visible bump at the joint in severe cases.
- Pain when moving the arm across the body.
Mild cases can recover with physiotherapy, while severe ligament tears may require surgery.
A strong rehabilitation plan can help prevent future injuries. Learn more about preventing shoulder injuries with physiotherapy.
Effective Physiotherapy Treatments for Shoulder Pain
Physiotherapy is key to recovering from shoulder injuries and improving long-term joint function. Here are the most effective treatment methods.
1. Manual Therapy for Pain Relief
Physiotherapists use hands-on techniques to improve mobility and reduce stiffness. These include:
- Joint mobilisation – Helps restore movement by gently stretching the joint.
- Soft tissue massage – Loosens tight muscles and improves circulation.
- Trigger point therapy – Releases muscle knots that contribute to pain.
Athletes with frozen shoulder or AC joint sprains often see immediate relief from manual therapy.
2. Strength Training for Shoulder Stability
Weak shoulder muscles increase the risk of reinjury. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening:
- Rotator cuff muscles – Essential for joint stability.
- Scapular muscles – Control proper shoulder blade movement.
- Deltoids and trapezius – Support overall shoulder mechanics.
Common exercises include:
- Resistance band rotations.
- Shoulder presses with controlled movement.
- Scapular retraction drills.
3. Mobility and Flexibility Training
Stiffness limits range of motion and increases strain on the shoulder joint. Key mobility exercises include:
- Passive stretching – Lengthens tight muscles.
- Active range-of-motion drills – Improves movement control.
- Foam rolling and self-massage – Reduces muscle tension.
Athletes who prioritise mobility training recover faster and experience fewer injuries over time.
4. Taping and Bracing for Additional Support
Taping and bracing provide extra stability during recovery. They help with:
- AC joint injuries – Prevents excessive movement.
- Rotator cuff strains – Supports weak muscles while healing.
- Dislocations – Prevents instability.
Athletes often use taping during competition or training to protect the shoulder.
5. Sport-Specific Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation isn’t just about healing—it’s about returning to full sports performance. Physiotherapists customise programs with:
- Throwing drills for baseball and cricket players.
- Swing mechanics for golfers and tennis players.
- Push-pull exercises for swimmers and rowers.
Case Study: A Tennis Player’s Recovery from Rotator Cuff Injury
A 28-year-old competitive tennis player developed a rotator cuff tear from repetitive overhead strokes. She experienced:
- Pain and weakness in her dominant arm.
- Limited range of motion, making it difficult to serve.
- Difficulty with daily tasks, such as reaching for objects.
Her Physiotherapy Plan Included:
- Manual therapy – Joint mobilisation and massage to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Progressive strength training – Rotator cuff and scapular stabilisation exercises.
- Sport-specific drills – Refining stroke mechanics to prevent reinjury.
The Results:
- After 6 weeks, she regained mobility and could perform light hitting.
- By 12 weeks, she returned to full training without pain.
- Physiotherapy not only healed her injury but improved her overall shoulder strength and technique.
Take the First Step Toward Shoulder Recovery
Shoulder injuries can sideline athletes, but physiotherapy restores strength and function. If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, expert care makes all the difference. Book an appointment with a shoulder physiotherapist today and start your recovery.
For more information on recovering from shoulder injuries after sports or preventing shoulder injuries with physiotherapy, visit Melbourne Hand Therapy.
Please call us today (03) 9899 8490 or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
