Physiotherapy for Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a symptom that is experienced by patients across the age spectrum. While there are many causes of shoulder pain, physiotherapy is important in the initial management of many conditions. A treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s diagnosis, age, activity level, and future demands. Working with a comprehensive healthcare team including a physician and physiotherapist will ensure optimal chances of success as additional interventions such as an injection and/or surgery may also play a role.
Causes of Shoulder Pain
- Subacromial impingement
- Subacromial bursitis
- Biceps tendonitis
- Os acromiale
- Acromioclavicular joint injury
- Fractures
- Rotator cuff tendonitis
- Rotator cuff tears
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Avascular Necrosis
- Scapulothoroacic bursitis
- Scapular winging
- Frozen Shoulder
Imaging for Shoulder Pain
- Xrays to assess for fractures, arthritis, os-acromiale, AC joint issues
- MRI to assess the cartilage, labrum, tendons, and musculature
Principles of Physiotherapy for Shoulder Pain
Physiotherapy plays a role in the management of shoulder pain by improving shoulder joint and shoulder blade movement patterns, increasing strength in the rotator cuff and shoulder blade musculature, and minimizing inflammation inside and around the shoulder joint. Certain conditions also present with a decrease in active or passive range of motion. Passive range can be improved through the use of manual therapy and mobilization whereas active range of motion should be addressed with strengthening exercises as well. Focusing on inflammation, mechanics, flexibility, and strength in the neck and elbow is also important as the joints can be affected by what is above and below.
Therapia physiotherapists are experienced in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain. To get started, click here or call