Keys to Assessing and Treating Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the shoulder. It occurs when the structures around the shoulder joint, such as the rotator cuff tendons or bursae, become pinched or compressed during movement. While shoulder impingement is a common complaint among athletes and manual laborers, it can affect anyone at any age. If you think you may have shoulder impingement, it is important to seek the help of a qualified physical therapist to assess and treat the condition. In this blog, we’ll discuss the keys to assessing and treating shoulder impingement, as well as how we can help you at B Physical Therapy.

Assessment

The first step in treating shoulder impingement is assessing the severity of the condition. Your physical therapist will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include assessing your range of motion, strength, and flexibility. X-rays or MRI scans may also be used to identify any structural damage to the shoulder. Based on the results of your evaluation, your physical therapist can develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your individual needs.

Conservative treatments

Most cases of shoulder impingement can be treated conservatively, without the need for surgery. Your physical therapist may recommend a combination of modalities such as hot/cold therapy, massage, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic exercise. These techniques can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve range of motion and strength in the affected shoulder. Additionally, your physical therapist may provide you with exercises to improve your posture and body mechanics to prevent further stress on the shoulder joint.

Manual therapy

Manual therapies such as joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and myofascial release can also be helpful in treating shoulder impingement. These techniques are designed to stretch and loosen tight muscles and tissues in the shoulder region, allowing for better movement and less pain. Your physical therapist will use a hands-on approach to manually manipulate your shoulder joint and surrounding tissues, helping you achieve optimal joint mechanics.

Surgical options

If conservative treatments are not successful at treating your shoulder impingement, a surgical option may be recommended. Surgery is typically used as a last resort when other treatments have failed. Your physical therapist can help you in pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, restoring your shoulder function and strength.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing shoulder pain or discomfort, it is important to seek the help of a qualified physical therapist. At B Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating shoulder impingement, and offer customized treatment plans based on each patient’s individual needs. Whether you need conservative treatment or more intensive therapy, we have the expertise to help you achieve optimal results. So, if you're looking for Physical therapist in Oviedo, FL, contact us today to schedule your appointment and start your journey toward a pain-free shoulder.