Physical Therapy For Shoulder Pain Supports The Healing Process For A Successful Return To Activity
Have you ever felt a sharp pang in your shoulder when reaching for something on a high shelf? Or, perhaps, a dull ache that just won’t go away and makes everyday tasks like getting dressed or brushing your hair a challenge? Millions of people suffer from shoulder pain each year, and for many, it can significantly impact their quality of life. Fortunately, physical therapy for shoulder pain offers a noninvasive and effective solution.
Keep reading to learn about common shoulder injuries we treat in our clinic.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain For Physical Therapy Treatment
Shoulder pain, a common complaint affecting millions, can manifest as any discomfort or pain felt in or around the shoulder joint. These causes can range from overuse injuries to underlying medical conditions, making a proper diagnosis crucial. Physical therapy for shoulder pain has proven to be an effective treatment option, regardless of the underlying cause.
Six common types of shoulder pain we treat in our practice include:
Rotator Cuff Tears
- The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and generate a wide range of movements. A tear in one or more of these tendons can be partial or complete and occur due to injury or gradual wear and tear. Rotator cuff tears can lead to significant pain, weakness, and limited movement in the shoulder.
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
- Inflammation or degenerative microtearing of the tendons in the rotator cuff is often caused by overuse or repetitive strain and can lead to pain, tenderness, and difficulty moving the shoulder.
Impingement Syndrome
- This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed or pinched between the humerus (upper arm bone) and the acromion (the upper part of the shoulder blade), causing pain and discomfort.
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, limiting movement. It often develops gradually and can last for months or even years.
Shoulder Bursitis
- Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Inflammation of these sacs in the shoulder can cause pain and tenderness.
Osteoarthritis
- This degenerative joint disease can affect the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
How Physical Therapy Treats Shoulder Pain
Our physical therapy for shoulder pain programs offer a personalized treatment approach that focuses on restoring shoulder function and reducing pain.
Pain Management
- Our physical therapists use various techniques, such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy, to reduce pain and control inflammation.
Range of Motion Exercises
- Specific exercises are designed to improve mobility in the shoulder joint.
Strengthening Exercises
- Targeted exercises help strengthen the rotator cuff and scapula muscles surrounding the shoulder joint and shoulder blade, providing stability and support.
Functional Training
- We’ll teach you techniques to improve your ability to perform everyday activities, such as reaching, lifting, and carrying.
Patient Education
- We will educate you about your specific condition, how to manage pain, and ways to prevent future injuries.
Physical Therapy For Shoulder Pain Relief With The Center of Medical Arts
During your initial evaluation, your physical therapist will conduct a thorough assessment of your shoulder, including range of motion, strength, and pain levels. Based on this assessment, they will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Your physical therapist will guide you through each exercise to ensure proper form and technique to maximize results and minimize the risk of further injury.
If you’re suffering from shoulder pain, don’t let it hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment!
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