Shrug Off Shoulder Pain With A Physical Therapist’s Help
Did you know that your shoulders are the most moveable and flexible joints in your body? They are made up of various muscles, tendons, and bones, and they’re pretty complicated. They are what allow you to move around and complete many of your responsibilities during the day. Your shoulders are capable of a great deal, but they are also highly vulnerable to injury.
Common causes of shoulder pain
Athletes are especially susceptible to shoulder pain and injury. With fall sports in full swing, athletes involved in hockey, football, lacrosse and rugby (to name a few) should see a physical therapist if they start to experience any shoulder-related pain. Our physical therapists will help address the root cause of the pain and provide exercises to strengthen the area and significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.
Several underlying causes could result in shoulder pain. For example, a sudden injury or trauma to the shoulders can cause them to become painful. Repetitive motions can also cause shoulder pain, as your muscles, joints, and tendons are working in overdrive.
Keeping these underlying causes in mind, it’s not just athletes that should be extra aware of their shoulders. Have you ever felt like you couldn’t quite extend your arm or rotate your shoulder to reach up for that apple while apple picking? Has your shoulder felt sore while raking leaves or doing yard work?
Physical therapy can treat several specific conditions that may be contributing to the pain or discomfort that you are feeling in your shoulder. We want you to be able to fully participate in fun activities with your family and friends, so make sure to reach out to us as soon as you start to experience any pain or shoulder limitations.
Some of the most common conditions resulting in shoulder pain include:
- Bursitis. Bursitis is a joint inflammation that affects the fluid-filled sacs surrounding the bones, muscles, and tendons. It frequently happens in body parts that are subjected to repetitive activities. You may feel stiff or achy in the affected area, which may also become red or inflamed if you have bursitis. Physical therapy can help with the inflammation as well as the pain you’re experiencing.
- Arthritis. Arthritis is a painful and stiffening joint disease that can feel worse in cold weather. There are various forms of arthritis, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most frequent. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage between your bones breaks down, causing the bones to rub together. Swollen and inflamed joints characterize rheumatoid arthritis. Physical therapy can help with pain alleviation and movement for both of these diseases.
- Tendonitis. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes irritated or inflamed. It can appear in several parts of the body, and colloquial terms such as “tennis elbow,” “swimmer’s shoulder,” and “jumper’s knee” are usually used to describe it. A physical therapist can treat different types of tendonitis and relieve the inflamed area.
- Frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder is a painful ailment that develops after prolonged periods of immobility, such as being in a sling or cast following an injury. Over time, this condition will deteriorate, causing discomfort and stiffness. Physical therapy can help provide relief while you are recovering, and it usually corrects itself after several years. It may also aid in hastening the healing process.
- Sprains and strains. When a ligament is stretched too far or damaged, it is called a sprain. When a muscle or tendon is stretched too far or torn, it is called a strain. Strains and sprains can cause chronic shoulder pain, making it difficult to exercise or perform regular duties. If the strain or sprain is minimal, it may be treated at home with ice and rest. Physical therapy is typically required for more severe strains and sprains.
- Torn cartilage. When cartilage tears, you may experience several painful symptoms. You may experience decreased strength and a limited range of motion in the affected shoulder. You may also experience pain when moving your arm in specific ways. If you are suffering from torn cartilage, physical therapy can provide relief.
How can a physical therapist help get rid of my pain?
Physical therapy has two main goals: 1) to relieve your pain and 2) to increase your function. Throughout your physical therapy appointments, your physical therapist will work with you to ensure that both of these goals are met.
Your physical therapist will design a treatment plan specifically for you, which will include targeted exercises. It may also include any additional methods or modalities that your physical therapist deems fit, including ice and heat therapies, manual therapy, dry needling or electrical nerve stimulation.
Get rid of your shoulder pain!
If you are living with shoulder pain, don’t let it limit your life any longer! There are a wide range of conditions that can be treated with the help of physical therapy. Find natural, safe, and effective relief at Elliott Physical Therapy in Dorchester, Milton, Mansfield, Hingham, Hanover, North Attleboro, South Easton, or Needham and get back to the activities you love.
Contact your nearest clinic today to make your appointment!