5 Shoulder Injuries that Can Improve or Resolve with Physical Therapy

Because people use their arms regularly throughout the day, an injury to a shoulder can cause pain even with minimal movement. In some cases people tend to find more success by actively treating the area with physical therapy. There are five shoulder conditions which can respond well to physical therapy. Diagnoses with any of the following shoulder issues may result in PT (physical therapy.)

Bursitis – The bursa is a fluid filled sac which helps to keep the shoulder lubricated so movements can occur fluidly. If this area becomes overstressed, inflammation can set in and cause pain or fluid overproduction.

Shoulder Tendinitis – Shoulder tendinitis involves inflammation of the rotator cuff or biceps tendon. If these tissues become overworked or injured inflammation can develop and make movement painful.

Frozen shoulder – Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the connective tissues that encase the shoulder thicken and restrict normal range of motion. Oftentimes it may occur with other shoulder injuries or after acute trauma to the area. Physical therapy may help gain as much range of motion in the joint as possible.

Shoulder Tendon Tears – Tendons in the shoulder can tear after forceful movement or from wear and tear over the years. Pain is typically moderate to severe and it depends on whether or not it is a full or partial tear. Physical therapy can help with the tendon healing and if surgery is required PT will be ordered post operatively to keep the area strong as the tendon heals.

Shoulder Dislocations – The shoulder joint is the most frequently dislocated joint in the body. After an initial dislocation, it’s possible another dislocation will occur. PT can develop a training routine to improve the stability of the joint and reduce the risk of another dislocation in the future. Physical therapy treatments will typically focus at maintaining range of movement, improving posture, strengthening shoulder muscles and reduction of pain.

THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911

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