Did you know that your shoulders are the most flexible and mobile joints in your body? They are extremely complex, with numerous muscles, tendons, and bones. They equip you with the mobility you need to complete many of your tasks throughout the day. Your shoulders can do a lot, but they are also extremely prone to injury.
If you’ve been suffering from shoulder pain, our Rancho Palos Verdes, CA physical therapy services can help you find natural relief. Contact Peak Orthopedic Physical Therapy today to learn more about how we can help you get back to your daily life pain-free!
What is the cause of my shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. A sudden injury or trauma to the shoulders, for example, can cause painful symptoms. Repetitive motions can also cause shoulder pain because your muscles, joints, and tendons are overworked. Physical therapy can treat a variety of conditions that may be contributing to the pain or discomfort in your shoulder. The following are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain:
- Arthritis. Arthritis is a disease of the joints that causes pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage between your bones begins to deteriorate, causing the bones to rub against each other. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by swollen and inflamed joints. Physical therapy can help with pain relief and mobility for both of these conditions.
- Sprains and strains. A sprain occurs when a ligament is overstretched or torn, while a strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. Strains and sprains can cause chronic shoulder pain, making it difficult to exercise or perform daily tasks. Minor strains and sprains can sometimes be iced at home and healed with rest. Physical therapy is frequently required for more severe strains and sprains.
- Torn cartilage. When a cartilage tears, it can cause a variety of painful symptoms. In the affected shoulder, you may notice decreased strength and range of motion. You may also feel pain when moving your arm in certain directions. If you have a torn cartilage, physical therapy can help you feel better.
- Tendonitis. Tendonitis is a condition in which a tendon becomes irritated or inflamed. It can appear in various parts of the body and is commonly referred to as “tennis elbow,” “swimmer’s shoulder,” and “jumper’s knee.” A physical therapist can treat various types of tendonitis and provide pain relief in the inflamed area.
- Bursitis. Bursitis is a condition where joints become inflamed and negatively affect the fluid-filled sacs that surround the bones, muscles, and tendons. It frequently occurs in areas of the body where repetitive motions are performed. If you have bursitis, you may feel stiff or achy in the affected area, which may also turn red or swollen. Physical therapy can help with the inflammation as well as the pain you’re experiencing.
- Frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder is a painful condition that occurs after prolonged periods of inactivity, such as being immobilized in a sling or cast following an injury. This condition will worsen over time, causing pain and stiffness. It usually resolves itself after a few years, but physical therapy can help provide relief while you recover. It may also help to hasten the recovery process.
What are the goals of physical therapy?
Two of the primary goals of physical therapy are to 1) relieve your pain and 2) improve your function. Throughout your physical therapy sessions, your physical therapist will work with you to ensure that both of these goals are met.
Your physical therapist will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, which may include targeted stretches and exercises. It may also include any additional methods or modalities deemed appropriate by your physical therapist, such as ice and heat therapies, manual therapy, ultrasound, aquatic therapy, or electrical nerve stimulation.
Contact our Rancho Palos Verdes, CA physical therapy clinic today!
Physical therapy can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions. Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from living your life any longer! Physical therapy treatments can provide you with natural, safe, and effective relief right now. Request an appointment with Peak Orthopedic Physical Therapy today to get started on your recovery journey.
