top of page
Patient holding shoulder in pain from rotator cuff tendinopathy – physiotherapy treatment at Cogent Rehab Burlington

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain Physiotherapy in Burlington

Shoulder pain is the third most common musculoskeletal problem after low back pain and knee pain, affecting nearly 1 in 4 adults. It can disrupt work, hobbies, sports, and even sleep, leaving you frustrated and unable to enjoy life fully.

 

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our expert physiotherapists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder conditions. Using evidence-based physiotherapy techniques, we help patients restore mobility, reduce pain, and return to their favorite activities without limitations.

What Causes Shoulder Pain?

The shoulder is a complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, and muscles, designed for strength and wide mobility. Because of this complexity, it is vulnerable to injury and degeneration. Causes of shoulder pain include:

  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy & tears (overuse, ageing, or trauma)

  • Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)

  • Shoulder osteoarthritis

  • Biceps tendinopathy

  • AC joint injuries (shoulder separation)

  • Instability & labral tears

  • Trauma or overuse injuries

In some cases, pain may even be referred from the neck or upper back.

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain

  • Pain when lifting or reaching overhead

  • Discomfort while sleeping on the affected shoulder

  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion

  • Swelling, weakness, or instability

  • Clicking, grinding, or popping noises

When To Seek Help

See a physiotherapist if you have:

  • Shoulder pain lasting more than 2 weeks

  • Difficulty lifting, reaching, or carrying objects

  • Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep

  • Weakness, stiffness, or instability limiting daily activities

 

Seek urgent medical attention if:

  • You cannot move your arm after an injury

  • You notice sudden swelling, deformity, or severe pain

  • Your shoulder pain is accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath

Why Choose Cogent Rehab Burlington?

At Cogent Rehab, you’re not just treated for pain—you’re treated as a whole person. Our Burlington physiotherapy clinic combines clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach. We provide individualized treatment plans tailored to your goals, whether that’s returning to work, improving sports performance, or simply enjoying a pain-free life.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our physiotherapists use evidence-based treatments designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and strengthen the shoulder so you can return to work, sports, and daily life without limitations.

Treatment options may include:

  • Manual Therapy: To reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and restore normal shoulder motion.

  • Therapeutic Exercise: To improve posture, stabilize the shoulder, and restore pain-free movement.

  • Myofascial Release: Compression, stretching, or instrument-assisted release to reduce muscle tightness and improve flexibility.

  • Education & Self-Management: Posture correction, workplace ergonomics, activity modifications, and home programs.

  • Electrotherapy & Modalities: Use of IFC (interferential current), or TENS to reduce pain and support tissue healing.

  • Sports Movement Rehabilitation (for athletic patients): Assessment and correction of faulty movement patterns to reduce strain on the shoulder and prevent future injuries.

  • Return-to-Work & Functional Training: Task-specific training and strategies to safely return to work, sports, or recreational activities.

Schedule An Appointment
Today

Get Back to Work, Sport, and Life Without Shoulder Pain. Living with shoulder pain doesn’t have to be your new normal. At Cogent Rehab, our expert physiotherapists use evidence-based treatments to help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence. Book your consultation today and feel the difference.

FAQs About Shoulder Pain Physiotherapy

Q1. What is the most common cause of shoulder pain?
Rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulder are among the most common causes we see at Cogent Rehab.

 

Q2. Can physiotherapy help a rotator cuff tear?
Yes. Physiotherapy helps strengthen surrounding muscles, restore mobility, and in many cases avoids the need for surgery.

 

Q3. How long does it take to recover from shoulder pain?
Recovery depends on the condition and severity, but most patients notice improvements within 4–6 weeks of consistent physiotherapy.

 

Q4. Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist?
No referral is needed in Ontario—you can book directly with Cogent Rehab.

 

Q5. Will physiotherapy help with arthritis in my shoulder?
Yes, physiotherapy reduces pain, improves flexibility, and helps maintain strength and function even with arthritis.

bottom of page