Shoulder

Shoulder physical therapy is a form of rehabilitation that helps individuals recover from shoulder injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. The goal of therapy is to relieve pain, restore strength and mobility, and improve function in the shoulder joint. The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, which makes it vulnerable to injuries from overuse, trauma, or age-related changes. Physical therapy is crucial in managing shoulder conditions and preventing future complications.

Common Conditions Treated in Shoulder Physical Therapy:

1. Rotator Cuff Injuries – Damage or tears to the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. This can lead to pain, weakness, and limited movement.
2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – A condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, with a gradual loss of range of motion.
3. Shoulder Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint, leading to pain and swelling.
4. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome – Occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated or pinched, typically from repetitive overhead motions.
5. Labral Tears – Tears in the cartilage that lines the shoulder socket, which can cause instability, pain, and a feeling of the shoulder "catching" or "popping."
6. Fractures and Dislocations – Broken bones or dislocated joints that may result from trauma, requiring rehabilitation after healing.
7. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation – After surgeries like rotator cuff repair, shoulder replacement, or labral repair, physical therapy is essential to restore movement and strength.
8. Shoulder Tendinitis – Inflammation of the shoulder tendons, often due to repetitive motion, overuse, or aging.
9. Postural Imbalances – Poor posture that strains the shoulder and upper back muscles, leading to discomfort, pain, and dysfunction.

Goals of Shoulder Physical Therapy:

• Pain Management: Reduce pain through modalities like ice, heat, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy techniques.
• Restoring Range of Motion (ROM): Improve shoulder mobility through gentle stretches and joint mobilizations to overcome stiffness.
• Strengthening: Targeted strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff, deltoid, and scapular muscles to support shoulder function and stability.
• Posture Correction: Addressing poor posture or dysfunctional movement patterns that place excess strain on the shoulder.
• Functional Recovery: Focus on restoring the ability to perform everyday activities, including lifting, reaching, and carrying, while minimizing pain and strain on the joint.