Introduction
Shoulder rehabilitation is essential for alleviating pain and restoring function to an injured shoulder. This joint offers a remarkable range of motion, enabling various movements that exceed those of any other joint in the body. However, this flexibility also makes the shoulder susceptible to stress and injury. Shoulder injuries are prevalent, particularly among athletes and individuals engaged in occupations that require overhead arm movements. Commonly treated shoulder conditions in rehabilitation include rotator cuff injuries, fractures, dislocations, and disorders affecting joints, nerves, or muscles.
Treatment
Your healthcare provider may refer you to a physical or occupational therapist specializing in shoulder rehabilitation. This therapy can be beneficial before or after surgery or as an alternative to surgical intervention. The primary objective of shoulder rehabilitation is to alleviate pain and enhance your strength, endurance, mobility, coordination, and overall functional activity.
During your initial evaluation, the rehabilitation therapist will assess your shoulder and arm. They will measure your joint mobility and muscle strength, examining for any deformities, swelling, or muscle imbalances. Painful movements will also be recorded.
It’s important to communicate your symptoms, concerns, and specific goals to your therapist. They will inquire about your work, home, and leisure activities to understand your shoulder's functional requirements better. Based on this information, your therapist will develop a tailored treatment plan aimed at achieving your functional improvement objectives.
The components of shoulder rehabilitation can vary depending on your specific condition, its severity, and your goals. Therapy often includes exercises for strengthening, mobility, endurance, and stretching. Additionally, your therapist may employ modalities such as heat and ice to alleviate pain and enhance flexibility. Techniques like ultrasound and electrical stimulation are also commonly used for shoulder treatment.
Typically, therapy starts with regaining or maintaining range of motion, with strength and stability training introduced once mobility has improved. Specific exercises are gradually incorporated to facilitate your return to normal work activities or sports.
