Shoulder pain is an extremely common problem that can significantly impact your quality of life. Whether caused by an injury, arthritis, tendinitis or other issues, shoulder pain can make daily activities difficult and painful. The good news is that physiotherapy offers a variety of effective techniques and treatments to help manage and relieve shoulder pain.
This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of how physiotherapy can help with shoulder pain. We’ll cover what physiotherapy is, common causes of shoulder pain, physiotherapy assessment and treatment techniques, and provide tips for finding a qualified physiotherapist. Read on to learn how physiotherapy can get you back to full mobility and living pain-free!
What is Physiotherapy and How Can It Help Shoulder Pain?
Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a healthcare profession focused on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability. Physiotherapists help patients manage pain, improve mobility, prevent further injury, and improve overall health and well-being through hands-on care, exercise prescription and education.
For shoulder pain specifically, a physiotherapist can provide a variety of treatment techniques to help relieve pain, restore range of motion, improve strength, correct posture and get you back to regular activity. Common physiotherapy treatments for shoulder pain include:
Manual therapy techniques like joint mobilization and manipulation to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Therapeutic exercises to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion and stabilize the shoulder joint.
Soft tissue release techniques like massage to relax tight muscles. (Also, see Massage Therapy)
Modalities like heat, ice and electrical stimulation to manage pain and inflammation.
Education on proper posture, activity modification and home exercises.
Custom braces or taping to provide support and improve biomechanics.
When shoulder pain is properly assessed and treated, physiotherapy can be extremely effective in providing safe, drug-free pain relief and restoring normal shoulder function.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
There are a variety of issues that can cause shoulder pain, which need to be properly evaluated and addressed for successful treatment. Common causes of shoulder pain include:
Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff strains, tendinitis and tears are common shoulder injuries.
Impingement Syndrome: When the rotator cuff tendons rub against the bones of the shoulder, it causes inflammation and pain. This is known as impingement syndrome.
Frozen Shoulder: Also called adhesive capsulitis, this causes stiffness and loss of motion in the shoulder joint.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint causes degeneration of cartilage and bone spurs, leading to shoulder pain.
Fractures: Broken bones in the shoulder area from injury or osteoporosis can lead to acute and chronic shoulder pain.
Dislocations: When the shoulder joint becomes fully dislocated, it can cause ongoing instability and discomfort.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa sacs in the shoulder leads to pain with movement.
Proper diagnosis by a doctor or physiotherapist is important to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
Seeking a Physiotherapy Assessment for Shoulder Pain
If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain that affects your regular activity, seeing a physiotherapist for assessment and treatment is highly recommended. Here is what you can expect during an initial physiotherapy visit for shoulder pain:
Medical History: The physiotherapist will ask questions about your shoulder pain onset, past injuries, medical conditions, medications, and activity level.
Physical Examination: Range of motion, strength, joint stability and sites of pain will be assessed with movement testing and palpation.
Functional Testing: You may be asked to perform actions like reaching or lifting to assess how shoulder pain impacts function.
Imaging Review: If you’ve had x-rays, MRI or other imaging done, the physiotherapist will review the results.
Diagnosis: Based on the assessment, the physiotherapist will diagnose the likely cause of your shoulder pain.
Treatment Plan: A customized treatment plan will be developed including hands-on physiotherapy techniques, exercises, modalities, braces, etc.
Education: You’ll learn ways to manage your shoulder pain, proper movement patterns and home exercises.
Seeing a physiotherapist promptly when shoulder pain arises can help avoid chronic issues and need for surgery down the road.
Physiotherapy Treatment Techniques for Shoulder Pain
Once the underlying cause of your shoulder pain is diagnosed, your physiotherapist will provide hands-on treatment tailored to your specific condition. Here are some of the most effective physiotherapy techniques for relieving shoulder pain:
Manual Therapy
Joint Mobilization – The physiotherapist will gently move the shoulder joint through its range of motion to improve mobility and decrease pain. Mobilizations can target the shoulder complex, spine, rib cage and other adjacent joints.
Joint Manipulation – A high velocity, low amplitude technique in which the shoulder joint is moved just beyond its limit. Results in a “pop” sensation. Helps restore mobility.
Soft Tissue Massage – Relaxes tight muscles around the shoulder joint. Helps improve blood flow and decrease muscle spasms.
Trigger Point Release – Pressing on irritable, painful knots in the shoulder muscles to relieve muscle tension.
Therapeutic Exercise
Range of Motion Exercises -Movements take the shoulder joint through all directions to maintain or improve mobility.
Rotator Cuff Strengthening – Exercise with resistance bands, cables, dumbbells or machines to improve rotator cuff strength.
Scapular Stabilization – Targeted exercises to improve strength and control of shoulder blade muscles.
Posture Correction – Stretches and exercises to correct rounded shoulders and poor posture.
Modalities
Heat Therapy – Heating pads, hot packs or heat creams relax muscles and increase blood flow.
Ice Therapy – Ice packs decrease inflammation and pain. Often alternated with heat.
Electrical Stimulation – Gentle electrical currents help decrease shoulder pain.
Ultrasound – Sound waves penetrate deep into tissues to promote healing.
Iontophoresis – Uses electrical current to deliver anti-inflammatory medication.
Other Techniques
Joint Bracing – Custom, adjustable braces support the shoulder and improve biomechanics.
Kinesiotaping – Specialized tape dynamically supports and positions the shoulder.
Dry Needling – Thin needles are inserted into trigger points to relieve muscle knots and tension.
These hands-on physiotherapy techniques, combined with a customized home exercise program, provide effective relief for most shoulder pain causes.
Takeaway Summary
In summary, physiotherapy offers many benefits for relieving shoulder pain and restoring mobility:
Physiotherapists provide drug-free, hands-on treatment customized to your shoulder condition.
A combination of manual therapy, exercise prescription, modalities and education is used.
Seeking assessment quickly can prevent chronic issues and need for surgery.
Look for an experienced physiotherapist with orthopedic or sports expertise.
Consistent physiotherapy treatment and home exercise will provide optimal shoulder pain relief.
Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back from the activities you enjoy. Take control of your shoulder health and consult a physiotherapist to get back to pain-free movement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is physiotherapy?
A: Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a healthcare profession that involves the use of various physical techniques and exercises to rehabilitate and improve the movement and function of patients. It focuses on restoring and maintaining physical mobility, strength, and overall well-being.
Q: Why would I need physiotherapy?
A: You may need physiotherapy if you have musculoskeletal problems, such as back pain, neck pain, or joint injuries. Physiotherapy can also be beneficial for neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or in post-operative rehabilitation. It can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Q: How can physiotherapy help me?
A: Physiotherapy helps in many ways. It can reduce pain, improve flexibility, strength, and endurance. It can also help to improve balance and prevent falls. Physiotherapists use various techniques like manual therapy, exercises, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to guide patients towards their recovery goals.
Q: How do I know if I should see a physiotherapist?
A: If you are experiencing pain, decreased range of motion, difficulty in performing daily activities, or have recently had surgery, it may be beneficial to see a physiotherapist. They can assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Q: Is physiotherapy only for athletes?
A: No, physiotherapy is not limited to athletes. While athletes often require physiotherapy services for injury prevention and sport-related rehabilitation, physiotherapy can help people of all ages and physical activity levels. It is for anyone in need of physical rehabilitation and pain relief.
Q: How long does a physiotherapy session typically last?
A: The duration of a physiotherapy session may vary depending on your specific needs and treatment plan. On average, a session can last between 30 minutes to an hour.
Q: What is hydrotherapy?
A: Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy that involves exercises performed in a heated pool. The warm water helps to relax muscles, reduce pain, and improve joint mobility. It is often used for rehabilitation and managing conditions like arthritis or for post-surgical recovery.
Q: What is the difference between physiotherapy and physical therapy?
A: The terms “physiotherapy” and “physical therapy” are often used interchangeably and refer to the same profession and practice. The term “physiotherapy” is more commonly used in the UK and other parts of the world, while “physical therapy” is commonly used in the United States.
Q: How can I find a physiotherapy practice near me?
A: Simple, come to Active Back to Health! Book An Appointment today!