Shoulder Pain? Regaining Strength and Mobility with Shoulder Physiotherapy

This versatility allows us to perform everyday activities like reaching, lifting, and dressing.  However, this complexity also makes the shoulder susceptible to various injuries and conditions that can cause significant pain and limit movement.

Fortunately, shoulder physiotherapy offers a safe and effective approach to managing and overcoming a wide range of shoulder conditions.  This article explores some of the most common conditions treated by Shoulder Pain Physiotherapy in Edmonton at Next Step Physiotherapy.

Rotator Cuff Injuries:

Rotator cuff tears, inflammation (tendinitis), or impingement (where tendons rub against bone) are common causes of shoulder pain and weakness.

Physiotherapy can address these issues with targeted exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce inflammation. Manual therapy techniques may also be used to improve joint mobility and promote healing.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis):

Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, significantly restricting movement. This can be a debilitating condition, making even simple tasks difficult.

Shoulder physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing frozen shoulders. A physiotherapist will design a program that gradually stretches the capsule surrounding the joint, improving mobility and reducing pain. Heat therapy, manual therapy, and specific exercises are often used in conjunction to achieve optimal results.

Shoulder Bursitis:

Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint. Bursitis occurs when these bursae become inflamed, causing pain and tenderness.

Physiotherapy for shoulder bursitis focuses on reducing inflammation and pain. This may involve modalities like ice therapy, ultrasound, or anti-inflammatory medication. Additionally, strengthening exercises for the surrounding muscles can help stabilize the joint and prevent future flare-ups.

Shoulder Dislocation:

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball of the humerus (upper arm bone) pops out of the socket in the shoulder blade. While immediate medical attention is necessary, physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery.

After the shoulder is stabilized, physiotherapy focuses on regaining strength, mobility, and proprioception (body awareness) in the joint. This helps prevent future dislocations and ensures optimal shoulder function.

Osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the shoulder joint. While there's no cure, physiotherapy can significantly improve pain management and function.

Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint can help stabilize it and reduce stress on the cartilage. Pain management techniques like heat therapy, manual therapy, and modalities like ultrasound may also be incorporated into the treatment plan.

Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in the Neck):

Sometimes, pain felt in the shoulder can originate from a pinched nerve in the neck. This condition, known as cervical radiculopathy, can cause pain, weakness, and numbness in the shoulder and arm.

Physiotherapy can address cervical radiculopathy by focusing on improving posture and flexibility in the neck and shoulder. Exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine can also help alleviate pressure on the pinched nerve.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation:

If you've undergone shoulder surgery, physiotherapy is crucial for optimal recovery. A physiotherapist will design a personalized program to gradually improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder joint. This helps restore function and prevent scar tissue formation.

Beyond the List

The conditions listed above are just some of the many shoulder issues that physiotherapy can effectively address.  At Next Step Physiotherapy Edmonton, our experienced physiotherapists can assess your specific condition and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Additional Benefits of Shoulder Physiotherapy:

Improved Posture: Good posture is essential for shoulder health. Physiotherapy can address postural imbalances that contribute to shoulder pain.

Pain Management: Physiotherapy offers various non-invasive techniques to manage shoulder pain, reducing reliance on pain medication.

Improved Balance and Coordination: Shoulder physiotherapy can improve balance and coordination in the upper body, reducing the risk of falls.

Preventative Care: Physiotherapists can recommend exercises and strategies to help prevent future shoulder problems.

Next Step Physiotherapy Edmonton: Your Partner in Shoulder Health

If you're experiencing shoulder pain or limitations in movement, don't hesitate to seek help.  At Next Step Physiotherapy Edmonton, our team of dedicated physiotherapists is here to guide you on the path to recovery.  Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free and functional shoulder.

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