Shoulder Injuries and Conditions

Shoulder pain can be caused by debilitating issues that affect your ability to perform everyday activities. These symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life, whether you’re experiencing sharp pain, stiffness, or weakness in your shoulder joint.

At Paspa Physical Therapy, located in the heart of Manhattan, New York, we specialize in providing one-on-one care for shoulder injuries and conditions. Book an appointment with one of our experienced physical therapists today!

Common Conditions That Cause Shoulder Pain

Several common shoulder injuries and conditions can lead to chronic or acute pain. Below is a list of common causes of shoulder pain, along with the treatments often recommended:

Strain/Sprain: This occurs when the shoulder muscles or ligaments are overstretched or torn. Treatment often includes rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises to regain strength and mobility.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation in the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness. Physical therapy focuses on improving flexibility and reducing inflammation.
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff muscles can lead to discomfort, particularly during overhead movements. Physical therapy helps reduce inflammation and strengthen the muscles around the joint.
Rotator Cuff Tears: Common in athletes and active individuals, this injury can cause pain and difficulty lifting the arm. Surgery may be required, followed by physical therapy to restore mobility and strength.
Labral Tear/SLAP Tear: The labrum, a piece of cartilage in the shoulder joint, can tear due to trauma or overuse. A SLAP tear refers to a specific tear in the superior part of the labrum. Physical therapy often includes exercises to stabilize the joint.
Dislocation: A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder joint. Physical therapy is essential for restoring the range of motion and preventing future dislocations.
Shoulder Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint, can cause pain and swelling. Treatment includes rest, ice, and targeted exercises to reduce inflammation.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition leads to stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, restricting movement. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring mobility through stretching and strengthening exercises.
Impingement Syndrome: This occurs when the shoulder muscles are pinched during movement, causing pain. Therapy focuses on improving posture and mechanics to relieve pressure on the rotator cuff muscles.
Bicipital Tendonitis: Inflammation of the biceps tendon can cause pain in the upper arm and shoulder. Physical therapy works to reduce inflammation and restore range of motion.

Surgical Treatments That Require Physical Therapy Post-Surgery

Physical therapy is a critical component of recovery after shoulder surgery, helping patients regain strength, mobility, and function through targeted rehabilitation programs tailored to each procedure. Some of the common surgical procedures that require physical therapy post-operation include the following:

Humerus Fracture with Open Reduction Internal Fixation: A severe break in the upper arm bone may require surgery. Physical therapy helps to rebuild strength and movement post-operation.
Rotator Cuff Repair: Surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff is often followed by a structured rehabilitation program involving specific exercises to restore full function.
Arthroscopy/Debridement/Decompression: Minimally invasive surgeries are used to treat shoulder injuries or remove damaged tissue. Physical therapy is essential post-surgery to regain mobility and strength.
Labral/SLAP Repair: Following surgical repair of a labral tear, physical therapy focuses on restoring shoulder stability and function.
Bankart Repair: A procedure often used to treat recurrent shoulder dislocations. Post-operative physical therapy is crucial for full recovery.
Total/Partial Shoulder Replacement: In cases of severe arthritis or injury, shoulder replacement surgery may be necessary. Physical therapy helps patients regain strength and a full range of motion after the procedure.

How Physical Therapy Helps with Shoulder Injuries

Physical therapy for shoulder injury is one of the most effective non-surgical treatment methods available. The primary goals are to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent further injury.

A skilled physical therapist will assess your shoulder joint, muscles, and range of motion to develop a personalized treatment plan. By strengthening the surrounding shoulder muscles and improving joint mechanics, physical therapy can significantly relieve pain and prevent future injuries.

Paspa Physical Therapy’s approach to shoulder pain treatment is comprehensive and patient-centered. With no aides or trainers, our physical therapists work directly with you, offering personalized care based on years of experience.

Physical Therapy Techniques for Shoulder Pain

Various physical therapy techniques can help with shoulder injuries, including:

Manual Therapy: This hands-on approach involves massage, stretching, and joint mobilization to improve circulation and relieve tension in the shoulder muscles.
Exercise Therapy: Specific exercises tailored to your condition help strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, shoulder blades, and surrounding muscles while improving flexibility.
Postural Training: Poor posture can exacerbate shoulder pain. Therapy may include techniques to correct posture and realign the shoulder joint.
Electrical Stimulation: This method helps reduce inflammation and promote healing by stimulating muscles and soft tissues.

Exercises for Shoulder Rehabilitation

Physical therapy exercises are a key part of shoulder rehabilitation. Some common exercises include:

Pendulum Swings: A gentle movement that helps restore mobility in the shoulder joint.
Internal/External Rotations: Strengthening the rotator cuff muscles to stabilize the joint.
Wall Crawls: Gradual stretching exercises that help improve the range of motion for conditions like frozen shoulder.
Scapular Stabilization: Exercises that target the shoulder blade muscles to improve shoulder mechanics.
Resistance Band Work: Strengthening exercises using resistance bands to build shoulder strength and stability.

Get Expert Shoulder Pain Treatment at Paspa Physical Therapy

If you’re suffering from shoulder pain or a recent shoulder injury, Paspa Physical Therapy in Manhattan can help. Our experienced physical therapists provide personalized, one-on-one care to get you back to your normal activities. With a full gym and private treatment rooms, we offer the ideal environment for your recovery.

Medically Reviewed by Pamela Paspa, PT

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