The Role of Physical in Therapy Shoulder Injury Treatment

Physical therapy can play a central and supporting role in shoulder injury treatment. It offers several attractive benefits in treating one of the most commonly injured joints. Here is a closer look at the role of physical therapy in treating common shoulder injuries.

Common shoulder injuries

The shoulder joint, which consists of the humerus (upper arm bone, the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone), is the joint with the most range of motion and the least stability. Therefore, shoulder injuries are common, especially among athletes. Frequent shoulder injuries include:

• Bursitis. Inflamed bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion between bones, tendons, and muscles
• Rotator cuff tear. Tear in one of the four rotator cuff muscles or tendons
• Dislocation. When the humerus is forced out of the shoulder socket
• Frozen shoulder. Pain and stiffness in the shoulder that reduces range of motion
• Shoulder impingement syndrome. This happens when rotator cuff tendons compress during shoulder movements, causing pain during lifting and reaching

Many of these injuries result from repeated motions, trauma, and aging. They cause pain and weakness, limit movement, and can interfere with daily activities.

Types of physical therapy for shoulder injury treatment

A physical therapist uses several treatments for shoulder injuries. These can be used as part of a recovery program, alone, or in addition to treatment with medication or surgery.

Stretching and exercises

Stretching can include active and passive stretching to improve flexibility and range of motion. Strengthening exercises may be included to build muscle strength around the shoulder joint and improve stability. The therapist may assist in part of these exercises and employ tools such as exercise bands and weights.

Manual therapy

These involve hands-on therapies to reduce pain and inflammation and improve mobility. Manual therapy techniques can include joint mobilizations, myofascial release, and soft tissue massage.

Other modalities

A physical therapist may use ice or heat therapy to reduce pain and tightness. Some may use ultrasound to help with pain and promote healing. Electrical stimulation, also known as E-stim, may be part of therapy. E-stim involves the use of controlled electrical impulses to improve muscle function.

A physical therapist will customize each patient's shoulder injury treatment plan based on their needs and circumstances. Treatment may also include instruction on how to prevent future injuries or re-injury.

Benefits of physical therapy for shoulder injury treatment

Physical therapy can help with injury rehabilitation and recovery from surgery. These treatments can help patients regain range of motion, reduce pain, and aid in healing while giving them the tools they need to prevent future shoulder injuries. Thanks to physical therapy, some patients can reduce reliance on prescription drugs and surgery or avoid them altogether.

Learn more about shoulder injury treatment and prevention

Shoulder injuries are highly common and can be very debilitating. Luckily Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT, Inc. offers customized treatment plans to help people recover from shoulder and other joint injuries, restore their range of motion, and return to moving comfortably. Call us today to learn more about physical therapy approaches to shoulder injury treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://irvine.ocptclinic.com or call Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT, Inc. at (949) 777-5301 for an appointment in our Irvine office.

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