Are you experiencing daily shoulder pain as a result of a musculoskeletal condition, a sports or workplace injury, or a chronic illness? If so, you need to hear about the pain-relieving properties of physical therapy (PT).
PT is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment option that is designed to relieve pain and improve functionality. Patients of all ages can benefit from regular sessions with a physical therapist, whether they are seeking help with managing chronic pain symptoms and or looking to prevent future injuries.
Nearly every day, our clinic sees individuals searching for relief from shoulder pain. Shoulder pain can be caused by a number of different factors, and if left untreated, can make completing daily tasks nearly impossible.
If you’re looking for fast-acting relief from your shoulder pain, contact Oklahoma Hand & PT in Tulsa, OK today to make an appointment with one of our dedicated physical therapists.
The 5 top reasons for shoulder pain
Most people don’t give much thought to their shoulders throughout the day. However, if you’re experiencing chronic shoulder pain, you’re painfully aware of the importance of this body part.
If everyday tasks and basic movements are becoming increasingly difficult for you due to your shoulder pain, it’s likely time to speak with a physical therapist.
A physical therapist can uncover the root cause of your pain and develop a personalized recovery plan for you. After a thorough physical exam, your physical therapist may discover that your shoulder pain is caused by one or more of the following common conditions.
1. Tendinitis.
Tendinitis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the shoulder area and prompts many people to seek physical therapy each year. Tendinitis typically affects those who are physically active or people who work at physically demanding or repetitive jobs.
For example, if you’re an athlete who plays tennis, or if you work as a professional painter, you could be at risk of developing tendinitis in your shoulder. If your doctor or physical therapist has determined that you have a high risk of developing tendinitis, it is important to remember that resting your shoulders regularly, alongside physical therapy, can help to prevent chronic pain.
2. Impingement.
Shoulder impingement occurs when the top part of the shoulder blade places excessive pressure on the underlying soft tissues in the arm when it is lifted away from the body. A shoulder impingement also causes the shoulder blade to rub improperly on the tendons and bursa each time the arm elevates.
If left untreated, impingement in the shoulder can result in bursitis and/or tendinitis.
3. Tendon tears.
An acute injury or certain degenerative conditions can cause the tendons in your shoulder to tear. The natural aging process, sudden injuries, and overuse also frequently cause tendons to split or tear. Whether a patient is experiencing a partial or a full tendon tear, the pain can be extremely intense and will likely require regular appointments with a skilled physical therapist.
4. Bursitis.
The shoulder is a complicated joint with a complicated network of moving elements. One of the most important components of the shoulder is called the bursa, which is made up of tiny sacs of fluid that work to keep the shoulder joint lubricated. Bursitis can develop when the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed. This condition can be very painful, but thankfully, physical therapy can help.
5. Frozen shoulder.
Frozen shoulder is commonly caused by an injury or develops alongside another shoulder condition. In order to prevent developing scar tissue in the shoulder, most physical therapists recommend that patients with frozen shoulders get plenty of rest in-between physical therapy sessions. If scar tissue does develop, the muscles surrounding the shoulder may lock up as well, restricting your full range of motion and resulting in chronic pain.
Contact Oklahoma Hand & PT today for long-lasting relief!
If you or a loved one is experiencing recurrent or prolonged shoulder pain, it would be wise to speak with a physical therapist as soon as possible. Physical therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and holistic treatment option that benefits patients of all ages and fitness levels.
Shoulder pain does not have to be a part of your life any longer. Contact Oklahoma Hand & PT in Tulsa, OK today to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy and finally start your journey toward living a pain-free life!