The shoulder is a major joint that helps you perform various movements. So when a medical condition or injury triggers discomfort in this area, it could seriously impact your quality of life. In severe cases, surgery and prescription medication may be necessary, but physical therapy for shoulder pain is also beneficial.
Are you considering shoulder physical therapy in NJ? Our medical professionals at Align Health & Wellness in West Windsor and Allentown, New Jersey, can help. Consult our guide below for more details about shoulder pain therapy and how it could help your recovery.
What Causes Shoulder Pain?
A 2022 study in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders claims that shoulder pain is a worldwide problem, making it the third most common musculoskeletal problem behind lower back and knee problems. The same study says that while the prognosis for those with this problem varies greatly, roughly 50% of patients experience persistent issues six months after seeking treatment from their doctors.
Shoulder pain can stem from a sudden injury, an overuse injury that occurs over time, and other issues affecting the joint or its muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Common causes include:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Tears or strains to ligaments, tendons, and muscles
- Dislocation
- Fractures
- Frozen shoulder syndrome
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Infection
- Osteoarthritis
- Improper posture
According to Physiopedia, up to 40% of the general population has asymptomatic rotator cuff tears. That means it’s possible to have a shoulder injury without symptoms.
How Shoulder Rehab Can Relieve Discomfort and Help with Recovery
Physical therapy for shoulder pain can help reduce aches and inflammation naturally. The American Physical Therapy Association reports that 70% of patients undergoing conservative treatment took prescription pain medicine in 2016, but that number dropped to 57% by 2021.
You may occasionally need to rest an injured body part. However, too much rest can worsen the discomfort, so the movements you engage in during physical therapy are important for recovery. These specialized therapists use activity modifications, exercises, and patient education to relieve or manage shoulder pain.
When to Seek Physical Therapy for Shoulder Injury Recovery
Consider getting shoulder pain relief with physical therapy if you experience problems like:
- Discomfort doing daily activities like lifting or reaching
- Problems carrying items
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Pain while performing specific movements
- Issues with arm movements
- Feelings of grinding or instability when moving your affected arm
Physical Therapy Exercises to Improve Shoulder Health
Physical therapy for shoulder pain often includes targeted exercises to loosen tension and build strength and flexibility. Examples include:
- Pendulum. With this flexibility exercise, you’d rest a hand on a firm surface to allow your other arm to hang loosely. Rotate clockwise and counterclockwise several times.
- Across the Chest. To improve flexibility and range of motion, bring your arm over your chest and grab it with your other hand. Hold for several seconds, then switch sides.
- Neck Release. Loosen neck and shoulder muscles by carefully dropping your head to put your chin on your chest. Then, move your head slightly to the side.
Get Relief From Shoulder Pain at Align Health & Wellness
You don’t have to live with discomfort and a reduced range of motion in your shoulders. At Align Health & Wellness in New Jersey, our medical team provides non-invasive rehabilitation and pain management to help patients recover from various injuries and conditions. Our physical therapy for shoulder pain can put you on your path to wellness and recovery.
Whether you need physical therapy for whiplash or shoulder pain, we can help. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available—call (609) 799-8444 for our West Windsor location or (609) 259-4991 for our Allentown clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Pain Physical Therapy
Our medical professionals share the answers to common questions regarding physical therapy and shoulder pain below.
Does Pain Management Therapy Take a Long Time to Resolve Shoulder Pain?
In many cases, pain management therapy can reduce discomfort and swelling within a few months. However, some patients may need a year of treatment for long-term results.
Why Am I Sore After Physical Therapy?
You might feel sore after physical therapy due to inflammation, overworking a muscle, or aggravating an existing injury. Doing targeted exercises correctly without overextending yourself can minimize soreness.
What Should I Expect During a Physical Therapy Appointment for Shoulder Issues?
When seeking physical therapy for shoulder pain, you should expect the therapist to examine the affected area, evaluate your range of motion, and check your ability to move your arm upwards and behind your back. They’ll then discuss your recovery goals and devise a treatment plan.