Shoulder problems come in many forms — from acute injuries that limit overhead activity to longer-running pain that nags through the working day. Our physiotherapists work with the full range of shoulder presentations at our Melton, Hoppers Crossing and Sunbury clinics. To book, call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
For general public information, see healthdirect Australia's physical activity guidance.
Common shoulder presentations
- Rotator cuff problems — tendinopathy, partial tears, post-surgical rehab
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) at various stages
- Subacromial impingement and bursitis
- AC (acromio-clavicular) joint injuries
- Post-surgical recovery — rotator cuff repair, labral repair, shoulder replacement, dislocation surgery
- Shoulder instability and recurrent dislocations
- Throwing-related and overhead-sport injuries
- Posture-related shoulder pain from desk work or repetitive tasks
- Pain referred from the neck
What your first appointment may involve
- History — onset, mechanism, what helps or worsens it, prior episodes, work and activity demands.
- Physical examination — range of movement, strength testing, specific impingement and instability tests, screening of the neck and thoracic spine.
- Discussion — what we think is going on, whether imaging or a specialist opinion would change the plan.
- Treatment plan — proposed sessions, frequency and how progress will be measured.
- Initial treatment — manual therapy, exercise prescription, dry needling or taping where appropriate.
- Home advice — specific exercises and activity adjustments.
Treatment may include
- Manual therapy of the shoulder, scapula, neck and thoracic spine where appropriate
- Progressive strengthening of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers
- Range-of-movement work for frozen shoulder (usually a longer rehabilitation)
- Post-surgical rehab to the surgeon's protocol
- Dry needling and taping where suitable
- Activity modification for work or sport
- Coordination with shoulder surgeons or sports physicians where helpful
Locations
- 101 Physio Melton — 7/211–223 Barries Road, Melton West.
- 101 Physio Hoppers Crossing — 369 Morris Road, Hoppers Crossing.
- 101 Physio Sunbury — 16-18 O'Shanassy Street, Sunbury (by appointment).
Funding and payment options
- Private health insurance — HICAPS on-site for on-the-spot claiming.
- Medicare EPC / Chronic Disease Management — eligible patients with a GP plan.
- WorkCover — for accepted claims related to a workplace injury.
- TAC — for accepted claims related to a motor vehicle accident.
- NDIS — for participants whose plan includes physiotherapy.
- DVA — Gold and White cardholders may be eligible.
- Private payment — accepted. Contact reception for the current fee schedule.
Funding eligibility depends on your circumstances, referral, claim approval and appointment type. Please contact reception if unsure.
Why choose 101 Physio
- Three clinic locations across Melbourne's west and northwest
- Experience with rotator cuff, frozen shoulder, instability and post-surgical presentations
- Coordination with shoulder surgeons, sports physicians and GPs
- Dry needling and shockwave (where appropriate) as part of a wider plan
- Online booking and phone reception
Frequently asked questions
Will I need imaging before physiotherapy?
Often not for the first appointment — imaging is more useful where specific structural diagnoses need confirmation. We'll discuss whether imaging would change the plan.
How long does shoulder rehabilitation take?
It depends on the diagnosis. Rotator cuff tendinopathies often respond over 8–12 weeks of progressive rehab. Frozen shoulder typically runs a longer course (months). Post-surgical rehab follows the surgeon's protocol.
Can you communicate with my shoulder surgeon?
Yes — with your consent, we routinely communicate with treating surgeons.
Ready to book?
Call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
Related: physiotherapy · sports physiotherapy · all services
Reviewed by Joseph Louka, AHPRA-registered Physiotherapist · Last reviewed 2026-05-29.
