Understanding Shoulder Pain and Its Treatment
The shoulder is an incredibly mobile joint made up of three bones: the humerus, scapula, and clavicle. It offers a wide range of motion, including circular, forward, and backward movement. This mobility is made possible by the rotator cuff—a group of four tendons that connect muscles to the bones of the shoulder.
Request an AppointmentWhat Causes Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can result from various conditions, but the most common cause is a rotator cuff injury. These injuries may involve tendinitis, bursitis, or tears. Individuals who frequently perform overhead motions, such as painters or tennis players, are more prone to these injuries. Bursitis involves inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs in the shoulder, while rotator cuff tears or strains often result from trauma such as falls or car accidents.
Other causes of shoulder pain include pinched nerves, frozen shoulder, and dislocations. A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding structures compress the nerve, leading to intense pain. Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, restricting movement. In a dislocated shoulder, the humerus slips out of its socket. Additionally, age-related degeneration of soft tissues can lead to persistent discomfort. Most individuals will experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives.
Diagnosing and Treating Shoulder Pain
To determine the source of shoulder pain, a physician will perform a physical examination and review your medical history. Joint stability and range of motion will be assessed, and imaging such as X-rays or MRIs may be used for further evaluation.
A physical therapist plays a key role in treating shoulder injuries. During the initial evaluation, the therapist will assess pain levels, range of motion, and strength using tools like a goniometer. Special tests, such as Yergason’s test (for bicipital tendonitis) and the Empty Can test (for tendon or muscle injuries), help pinpoint the exact source of the pain.
Treatment involves a combination of therapeutic exercises and physical modalities. Exercises may include active and passive range of motion, the use of shoulder pulleys, scapular stabilization, and rotator cuff strengthening. Additional therapies such as ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, electrical stimulation, massage, and joint mobilization support the healing process. These treatments help reduce pain, improve circulation, decrease muscle tension, and promote tissue recovery.
Your therapist will also provide a personalized home exercise plan to support long-term healing. Physical therapy not only speeds up recovery but also reduces the need for medication.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or have sustained a shoulder injury, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us at our Greenwood, IN center for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Our certified and experienced physical therapists are here to guide you toward recovery and lasting relief.