Shoulder pain is one of the three most common musculoskeletal complaints. Physical therapy addresses the root cause rather than just the symptoms. Here is what care involves.
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body, which also makes it one of the most vulnerable to injury. Shoulder pain is one of the three most common musculoskeletal complaints, and it affects people across all ages and activity levels.
Common Shoulder Conditions We Treat
- Rotator cuff tears (partial and full-thickness)
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Shoulder instability and labral tears
- AC joint sprains and separation
- Biceps tendinopathy
- Post-surgical shoulder rehabilitation
- Shoulder injuries from car accidents or work incidents
What Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain Includes
Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment for the shoulder includes joint mobilization of the glenohumeral and AC joints, soft tissue release of the rotator cuff muscles and surrounding structures, and thoracic spine mobilization, which has a strong influence on shoulder mechanics.
Rotator Cuff and Scapular Strengthening
Weakness in the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizer muscles is a common contributing factor in most shoulder conditions. A progressive strengthening program targeting these muscles is central to shoulder rehabilitation, whether your condition is from injury, overuse, or surgery.
Postural and Movement Retraining
Many shoulder problems are related to or aggravated by poor posture and movement patterns. Your therapist identifies these factors and provides targeted exercises and strategies to address them alongside the local shoulder treatment.
Shoulder Injuries from Car Accidents
Seatbelt loading during a collision commonly causes shoulder injuries including rotator cuff damage, AC joint sprains, and labral tears from the bracing reflex. If your shoulder pain began after a car accident, Dynamic PT accepts medical liens so you can begin care without any upfront cost.
No Physician Referral Needed
You can begin physical therapy for shoulder pain in California without a referral. Call us directly to schedule a same-day evaluation at your nearest clinic.
Shoulder Pain PT by Location
Shoulder pain limiting your range of motion? Schedule an evaluation at any of our three LA clinics.
