Physical Therapy For Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement may be caused by any injury to the shoulder ligaments, bursa, rotator cuff, or abnormality in the shoulder bones. The onset of osteoarthritis in the shoulder may also result in shoulder impingement. The may initially suffers from pain and loss of range of motion in the shoulder region. Eventually, if not treated this disability may become even more serious.

A patient suffering from shoulder impingement is unable to lift his arms above shoulder level. Athletes who partake in strenuous throwing or lifting sports are prone to shoulder impingement. Physical therapy is a non surgical method of treat shoulder impingement before it becomes more serious. This is how physical therapy helps you manage shoulder impingement.

Objective of physical therapy
A physiotherapist’s main objective dealing with a patient with shoulder impingement will be pain reduction and return of range of motion. Physical therapy will ensure that the rotator cuff ligaments are strengthened, so that chances of injury reoccurring are reduced. Pain reduction through use of modalities may also be part of therapy. Lastly, the physical therapist will recommend the patient a suitable recovery period so that her injury may heal sufficiently.

Improve range of motion
The main focus of physical therapy is to return the patient’s range of motion, specifically for athletes. Loss of mobility may result in athletes being unable to perform training exercises. This can be a devastating blow to an athlete’s career. The physiotherapist takes the patient through various stretching motions that loosen the shoulder muscle, allowing the patient to move his shoulder freely.

Improves muscle strength
In the elderly, weak shoulder muscles can cause shoulder impingement. Such cases involve light weight strength training as part of the physical therapy regimen. This is done to make the shoulder muscles stronger. The rotator cuff tendon in particular must be able to hold the arms in place. Osteoarthritis in the elderly makes it difficult for them to reach behind them, overhead, or out to the sides.

Pain reduction
The bursa is a fluid filled sac in the shoulder region that cushions the movements of the shoulder. The swelling of this sac will cause irritation or pain when the patient moves her shoulder. Ice is applied to reduce the swelling. Electrical stimulation or Ultrasound therapy has been effective in the reduction of pain in the shoulder.

Recovery period
Once the shoulder has regained its functionality, the patient rests it for a period of time. During this time the patient will perform certain postural movements, to keep the shoulder from slouching and him from performing irregular movements.

Physical therapy Edmonton addresses the issue of shoulder impingement in their injury specific rehabilitation program. If you find yourself suffering from the symptoms of shoulder impingement get in touch with our professional physiotherapists, immediately! They will bring their experts services to your home and provide the best care possible.