Shoulder Pain

Why is the shoulder prone to pain?

Your shoulder is a complex joint comprised of three bones: the clavicle (collarbone), humerus (upper arm bone), and scapula (shoulder blade). Several tendons and muscles surround the shoulder joint to allow you to make a wide range of arm movements.

Unfortunately, this variety in mobility comes with a higher risk of injuries. Shoulder pain may result from damage to any part of this intricate joint.

What causes shoulder pain?

Many problems can lead to shoulder pain, including:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Tendonitis
• Shoulder dislocation
• Muscle sprains or strains
• Fractured bones
• Arthritis
• Ligament injuries
• Bursitis
• Frozen shoulder
• Torn cartilage
• Shoulder surgery

Bowman Physical Therapy takes a comprehensive approach to treating shoulder pain, developing a personalized plan that not only improves the injury site but promotes overall wellness.

What are the risk factors for shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase your risk of experiencing this symptom, such as:

Increasing age

As you grow older, the tissues in your shoulder joint become increasingly dry, brittle, or worn out. This makes you more susceptible to injuries and illnesses that cause shoulder pain. 

Certain sports

Athletes who repetitively move their arms, such as baseball and tennis players, have a greater risk of injuring the shoulder joint. The injury may be sudden (acute) or develop gradually with overuse. 

Physical labor

Work that requires frequent reaching and overhead motions, such as painting and carpentry, causes wear-and-tear damage that may lead to shoulder pain. 

How do you treat shoulder pain with physical therapy?

First, your Bowman Physical Therapy provider performs a thorough evaluation of your condition. This may include reviewing medical records from your primary care physician and asking questions about your symptoms.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your shoulder pain. The team at Bowman Physical Therapy designs a customized treatment plan based on your needs. This may include a variety of one-on-one physical therapy techniques, such as:

• Manual therapies (massage, passive exercise, and others)
• Range of motion exercises
• Stretching exercises
• Muscle strengthening exercises
• Kinesiology taping
• Dry needling
• Functional rehabilitation (training specific to your activity needs)
• Electrotherapy, light therapy, and tissue mobilization

Additionally, they can teach you exercises, stretches, and proper body mechanics to help prevent shoulder pain. 

For expert treatment of shoulder pain, call Bowman Physical Therapy or request an appointment online today.