Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can make it difficult to perform daily tasks, from lifting objects to reaching overhead. Whether your shoulder pain is caused by injury, overuse, or a chronic condition, ATI Physical Therapy provides effective treatments to help you get back to the activities you love. Our expert clinicians are dedicated to addressing the root causes of shoulder pain, reducing discomfort, and improving your range of motion.

What is Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort or ache in or around the shoulder joint. The shoulder is a complex structure consisting of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, making it susceptible to various injuries and conditions. Pain can originate from any of these structures and may vary in intensity and duration.

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Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain Symptoms

Shoulder pain symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and restricted movement. Some common symptoms include:

Pain or discomfort when lifting or rotating the arm.
Weakness in the shoulder muscles.
Limited range of motion or stiffness in the shoulder joint.
Swelling or tenderness in the shoulder area.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seeking early treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening.

Shoulder Pain FAQ

Dealing with shoulder pain can be challenging and often raises many questions about diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery. This FAQ section addresses some of the most common concerns patients have about shoulder pain and physical therapy. From understanding how shoulder pain is diagnosed to exploring the benefits of physical therapy and typical treatment durations, we aim to provide clear, concise answers to help you navigate your path to recovery.

How is shoulder pain diagnosed?

Shoulder pain is typically diagnosed through a combination of methods:

Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess your range of motion, strength, and areas of pain.
Medical History Review: Discussion of your symptoms, activities, and any previous injuries.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be used to visualize the shoulder structures.
Special Tests: Specific movements or maneuvers to identify the source of pain.

What are the benefits of shoulder pain physical therapy?

Physical therapy for shoulder pain offers numerous benefits:

Pain reduction and management
Improved range of motion and flexibility
Increased strength in the shoulder and surrounding muscles
Enhanced posture and body mechanics
Prevention of future injuries
Non-invasive treatment option

How long is physical therapy for the shoulder?

The duration of physical therapy for shoulder pain varies depending on several factors:

Severity and type of the shoulder condition
Individual’s overall health and fitness level
Compliance with home exercise programs
Response to treatment

What are common shoulder pain physical therapy exercises?

Common physical therapy exercises for shoulder pain include:

Range of motion exercises (e.g., pendulum swings, wall climbs)
Stretching exercises for improved flexibility
Strengthening exercises for rotator cuff and scapular muscles
Postural exercises to improve shoulder alignment
Resistance band exercises for progressive strengthening
Functional exercises that mimic daily activities
Balance and proprioception exercises
Ergonomic training for work or sports-specific movements

Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain at ATI

Contact ATI Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment or a complimentary injury screening. With over 900 locations nationwide, there’s an ATI clinic near you, ready to help you improve your mobility and stability. Find a physical therapy clinic and learn more about our comprehensive services.

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