Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Chronic Shoulder Pain

Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Chronic Shoulder Pain Shoulder pain may be confined to one area or radiate to surroundings areas. Physical therapy is an effective option for many shoulder problems.

One of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, shoulder pain refers to any pain that arises in or around your shoulder. As it is one of the most flexible joints in the body, the shoulder is highly susceptible to injury. Appropriate and timely treatment can prevent the pain from becoming chronic. In leading pain management and rehabilitation centers in Brooklyn, NYC, shoulder pain treatment plans include the use of various modalities to ease the symptoms and restore the joint’s full range of motion.

Physical therapy is often used in shoulder pain management.

Shoulder pain can occur due to repetitive joint movements, overuse, daily wear and tear, incorrect body posture, sprains and falls. Medical conditions such as rotator cuff tear, frozen shoulder, tendinitis, arthritis, bursitis, and impingement syndrome can also cause shoulder problems. Signs and symptoms of the condition can range from mild to severe and differ from one person to another. Common symptoms include - inability to carry/hold objects or use the arm, unusual twinges or aches in the shoulder area, swelling or bruising around the joint/arm, pain that occurs at night or while resting, and signs of an infection (including fever and redness). Shoulder pain may begin in the joint itself or in any of the surrounding muscles, ligaments or tendons, and usually worsens with activities or movements of arm or shoulder. Severe pain in the shoulders may significantly affect a person’s wellbeing and ability to

perform day-to-day activities. If left untreated, this condition can become chronic and cause lot of complications.

How Physical Therapy can address Shoulder Pain Physical therapy can ease joint pain, and increase strength, mobility, and range of motion. Diagnosis of shoulder pain generally begins with a detailed assessment of the neck and upper back. The soft tissues of the shoulder blade or scapula posture will be examined and range of motion will be evaluated.

Imaging tests like X-ray, MRI scan, ultrasound, and electrodiagnostic studies may be performed to locate the root cause of the pain condition.

In a professional pain management and rehabilitation center in Brooklyn, a team of specialists comprising physical therapists, orthopedists and other healthcare professionals will work together to correctly diagnose symptoms and provide customized pain management services to suit individual needs.

Physical therapy rehabilitation in Brooklyn involves a combination of therapeutic exercise programs like stretching, strengthening, isometric and aerobic exercises to increase muscle strength and improve joint mobility. Electrical stimulation, ice/heat application and ultrasound may be part of the physical therapy program.

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Ultrasound guided Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) utilizes an electric current (produced by a radio wave) to heat up a small area of nerve tissue in the shoulder, which lowers the pain signals from that specific area.

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Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) reduces pain using low-voltage electric stimulation that interacts with the sensory nervous system.

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Applying ice packs reduces inflammation in the shoulder area and heat application loosens tissues thereby stimulating blood flow to the area.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, muscle relaxants, and other medicines may be prescribed to help the patient better manage pain symptoms.

There are several strategies to prevent shoulder pain. Remain physically active and carry out your normal activities, but never overdo it. Avoid painful movements, especially those that hold your arm away from your body and above shoulder height. If you have chronic shoulder pain, get proper rest.

Avoid demanding activities like lifting heavy objects or sports that stress the joint.

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