How Physiotherapy Can Help with Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated or compressed as they pass through the narrow space between the shoulder blade and the upper arm bone. This condition can affect a person’s range of motion and daily activities. Physiotherapy Grande Prairie At Junction Point Physical Therapy , we specialize in providing personalized physiotherapy treatments to help individuals with shoulder impingement recover and regain optimal function.

Understanding Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement is typically the result of the tendons in the shoulder becoming pinched or compressed during arm movements. 

Overuse: Repetitive overhead movements, like lifting, throwing, or swimming.

Poor posture: Rounded shoulders can reduce space in the shoulder joint.

Weak or imbalanced muscles: Insufficient strength in the muscles around the shoulder joint can lead to improper movement patterns.

Age-related changes: As we age, the tendons and muscles in the shoulder can become less flexible and more prone to irritation.

Common symptoms of shoulder impingement include pain during overhead movements, weakness, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. In severe cases, it can affect the ability to perform daily tasks such as reaching, lifting, or carrying objects.

How Physiotherapy Helps with Shoulder Impingement

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to treat shoulder impingement, offering a non-invasive approach to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore function. At Junction Point Physical Therapy, we utilize a variety of techniques tailored to each individual’s condition and needs.

Assessment and Diagnosis

The first step in physiotherapy for shoulder impingement is a thorough assessment. Our physiotherapists will evaluate your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and posture to determine the underlying causes of the impingement.

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is often used in the treatment of shoulder impingement. This hands-on technique involves gentle movements, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue release to reduce pain and improve mobility. Manual therapy can help restore proper joint mechanics, reduce inflammation, and relieve muscle tightness around the shoulder joint.

Strengthening Exercises

Weak muscles around the shoulder, particularly the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, can contribute to impingement. Physiotherapists will guide you through strengthening exercises to improve the strength, stability, and coordination of the shoulder muscles. Targeted exercises help to balance the forces acting on the shoulder joint, reducing strain on the tendons and alleviating pain.

Stretching and Flexibility

Tight muscles, particularly in the chest, neck, and upper back, can contribute to shoulder impingement by restricting proper movement. Stretching exercises designed to improve flexibility in these areas can help restore normal function and prevent further irritation to the shoulder tendons.

Get Started at Junction Point Physical Therapy

At Junction Point Physical Therapy in Grande Prairie, we are dedicated to helping individuals recover from shoulder impingement and other musculoskeletal conditions. Our expert team of physiotherapists will work with you to create a customized treatment plan to alleviate pain, restore function, and help you return to the activities you enjoy.

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