Prompt physical therapy for shoulder pain is essential. The normal shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body. Because of this, there is also a tendency toward instability. Strain, overuse, trauma, disuse and atrophy, and aging may all contribute. Prompt physical therapy is critical because immobilization and disuse of the shoulder leads to:
- Atrophy
- Further loss of mobility
- Weakness of bone and joint cartilage
- Soft-tissue scarring
Physical therapy services may also prevent painful, chronic conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis, bursitis, or “frozen shoulder."
Treatment
Modalities
A variety of modalities (treatment tools) may be used to assist with pain relief and tissue healing:
- Ultrasound
- Phonophoresis
- Low level laser
- Iontophoresis
- Electrical stimulation
Manual Therapy
Our therapists utilize a wide variety of manual therapy techniques including
- Soft tissue mobilization
- Gentle joint mobilization
- Range of motion
- Manual stretching
- Trigger point release
- Myofascial release
These techniques are utilized to decrease pain, increase joint motion, reduce muscle spasm, increase flexibility, reduce scar tissue, and increase mobility.
Flexibility
Shoulder joint flexibility and stability is critical for improvement in functional and performance of activities of daily living.
Strengthening
Strengthening of the rotator cuff, cervical, and upper back musculature is a key factor in providing appropriate stability to perform activities of daily living and work tasks.
Postural Instruction
Appropriate standing and sitting posture is important in avoidance of both neck and shoulder pain. Our physical therapists are trained to evaluate posture and recommend postural correction techniques.
Ergonomics
Proper workstation placement is key in prevention of work related repetitive use injuries. The staff of AIM Physical Therapy is certified in evaluation of individual work stations. They will make recommendations to ensure proper ergonomics including assessment of the worksite and the particular job. Recommendations can be made for job rotation or change in technique.
