Shoulder Conditions

Shoulder range of motion measurement with goniometry

Understanding Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. At Peak Physiotherapy and Wellness, we are committed to helping you understand the various causes of shoulder pain and providing effective physiotherapy solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

  • Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that help control movement and stabilize the joint. Injuries or tears to the rotator cuff can result from repetitive movements, overuse, trauma, or age-related degeneration. This can  lead to pain, weakness, and limited shoulder movement, affecting your daily activities. 

  • Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often accompanied by reduced range of motion. It often develops gradually, with symptoms worsening over time. The exact cause is not fully understood but may involve inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule.

  • Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff and the bursa become compressed between the head of the humerus and the acromion, a part of the shoulder blade. This compression leads to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in the shoulder.

  • Shoulder Dislocation or Instability: Dislocation of the shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket. This injury can happen due to trauma, falls, or sports-related incidents, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Instability refers to a looseness in the shoulder joint that predisposes it to dislocate or subluxate (partially dislocate) with certain movements. This condition may result from trauma, or repetitive strain, leading to discomfort and limited shoulder function.

  • Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles in the shoulder. Repetitive overhead activities or trauma can lead to bursitis and shoulder pain.

  • Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis, can affect the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

  • Tendinopathy: Tendinopathy involves irritation, degeneration or thickening of the tendons in the shoulder, commonly affecting the biceps tendon or the tendons of the rotator cuff. This can occur due to overuse, aging, or repetitive shoulder movements, leading to pain and reduced shoulder function.

  • Fractures: Fractures of the shoulder bones, such as the clavicle (collarbone), humerus (upper arm bone), or scapula (shoulder blade), can cause significant pain and impair shoulder function.

  • Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior tear (SLAP) Lesion: A SLAP tear is where the long head of the bicep tendon pulls away from its attachment to the shoulder labrum, typically involves damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the shoulder joint. This injury can occur due to overuse, trauma, or repetitive overhead motions, leading to pain, weakness, and a sense of instability in the shoulder.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Our experienced physiotherapists at Peak Physiotherapy and Wellness] employ evidence-based techniques to address the root causes of neck pain and promote optimal neck function. Our personalized approach includes:

  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, including massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation, to alleviate muscle tension and improve joint mobility.

  • Exercise Prescription: Tailored home exercise programs are designed  to improve mobility, strengthen muscles,  improve posture, optimize proprioception and enhance overall neck stability.

  • Postural Education: Guidance on maintaining proper posture during daily activities to prevent and alleviate neck pain.

  • Ergonomic Advice: Recommendations on ergonomic adjustments at work and home to reduce strain on the neck.

  • Modalities: Application of therapeutic modalities, such as heat, ice, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or interferential current (IFC) may be used to alleviate pain and promote healing. 

  • Acupuncture/Dry Needling: Traditional Acupuncture may be applied for a short period of time to help improve blood flow, enhance healing, decrease nerve sensitivity and alleviate pain. Dry needling may be implemented to decrease size of muscle knots, reduce 

What to Expect During Physiotherapy Sessions

  • Comprehensive Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your condition, including symptoms, limitations, and lifestyle factors.

  • Tailored Treatment Plan: A personalized plan addressing your specific needs, comprising exercises, manual therapy, and pain management techniques.

  • Hands-On Therapy: Sessions may involve manual techniques and exercises guided by our physiotherapists.

  • Education and Advice: Information on proper posture, exercises, and self-care strategies to aid recovery and prevent further injury.

  • Progress Monitoring: Regular follow-up sessions to track progress, modify the treatment plan, and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Take the First Step Towards Shoulder Pain Relief

If you're experiencing shoulder pain, don't let it hold you back from living life to the fullest. Schedule an appointment with Peak Physiotherapy and Wellness to receive expert care and embark on the path to shoulder pain relief and improved function. Let us empower you to regain control of your shoulder health and well-being.