Burwood NSW · Shoulder Impingement Treatment
Shoulder impingement causes pain when lifting the arm — particularly between 60–120 degrees — and is one of the most common shoulder conditions we treat. It responds very well to physiotherapy.
Impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons and subacromial bursa become compressed in the narrow space under the acromion. We restore the subacromial space through targeted strengthening and movement correction.
How We Treat This Condition
Evidence-based treatment tailored to your specific presentation and goals.
Impingement Assessment
Neer’s, Hawkins-Kennedy, and empty-can testing to confirm impingement and distinguish primary from secondary impingement causes.
Learn more →Rotator Cuff Strengthening
Targeted supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and lower trapezius strengthening restores the dynamic stabilisation that opens the subacromial space.
Learn more →Manual Therapy
Glenohumeral and acromioclavicular joint mobilisation, posterior capsule release, and scapular repositioning techniques.
Learn more →Shockwave Therapy
For impingement associated with calcific tendinitis, shockwave is highly effective at breaking down calcium deposits.
Learn more →Dry Needling
Releasing the rotator cuff and scapular stabiliser trigger points that contribute to poor shoulder mechanics and impingement.
Learn more →Posture & Movement
Correcting rounded shoulder posture and overhead technique to prevent impingement from recurring.
Learn more →When to See a Physio for Shoulder Impingement
See a physiotherapist if you have pain lifting your arm overhead, a catching or pinching sensation with certain movements, night pain that disrupts sleep, or symptoms that haven’t improved after a week or two of activity modification.
What Happens at Your First Appointment?
Full Assessment
Detailed history, movement analysis and clinical tests to identify the root cause of your problem.
Diagnosis & Plan
We explain exactly what is going on and create a realistic, goal-focused treatment timeline.
Hands-On Treatment
Most patients receive treatment in their first session — manual therapy, needling, or exercise prescription.
Home Program
You leave with clear exercises and self-management strategies to accelerate your recovery.
Why Choose Burwood Physio?
- AHPRA-registered physiotherapists
- Same-day and next-day appointments available
- HICAPS on-site — claim health fund rebate instantly
- Medicare bulk billing with GP CDM plan
- NDIS registered provider
- WorkCover and icare accepted
- Evidence-based treatment — no unnecessary sessions
- 2 minutes walk from Burwood Station
📍 Located in Burwood: Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria St East, Burwood NSW 2134. 2 min from Burwood Station. Open Mon–Sat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is shoulder impingement?
Shoulder impingement (subacromial impingement syndrome) is compression of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa under the acromion bone during shoulder movement.
How long does shoulder impingement take to resolve?
Most cases significantly improve within 6–8 weeks of targeted physiotherapy. More chronic cases may take 3–6 months.
Does physiotherapy work for shoulder impingement?
Yes. Evidence strongly supports physiotherapy as the first-line treatment for shoulder impingement — surgery is rarely required.
Should I avoid overhead activities with shoulder impingement?
Avoiding aggravating movements initially is sensible, but complete rest slows recovery. Your physiotherapist will guide appropriate activity modification.
Can shoulder impingement come back?
Yes, if the underlying cause — poor rotator cuff strength and scapular control — is not addressed. Our program prevents recurrence.
What does shoulder impingement treatment involve at Burwood Physio?
Treatment focuses on restoring shoulder blade and rotator cuff control, addressing posture and movement patterns that narrow the subacromial space, combined with manual therapy to reduce pain.
What causes shoulder impingement?
Impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa become compressed during overhead movement, often due to poor shoulder blade control, rotator cuff weakness, or repetitive overhead activity such as swimming or throwing sports.
Is shoulder impingement the same as a rotator cuff tear?
Not necessarily — impingement describes compression of the tendons, while a rotator cuff tear involves actual tissue damage. Impingement can occur with or without an underlying tear, which we assess clinically.
Can I still exercise with shoulder impingement?
Yes, with modified technique. Avoiding painful overhead ranges while maintaining strength and mobility elsewhere helps recovery — your physiotherapist will guide safe exercise substitutions.
Do I need imaging for shoulder impingement?
Not usually. Shoulder impingement is typically diagnosed through clinical assessment. Imaging may be considered if symptoms do not improve with appropriate physiotherapy.
Shoulder pain on lifting or reaching?
Shoulder impingement responds very well to physiotherapy. Book today.