Physical Therapy for rotator cuff impingement

We Accept:

Mobile Rehab provides in-home, outpatient Physical Therapy for seniors.

Convenient

Personalized

Covered by insurance

Locally owned and operated in North Carolina since 2004

What is rotator cuff impingement?

Rotator cuff impingement is a common condition that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become compressed or pinched as they pass through the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone and help to stabilize and move the shoulder joint.

Source: Clevland Clinic

What are the symptoms of rotator cuff impingement?

Symptoms of rotator cuff impingement may include pain in the shoulder or upper arm, weakness in the shoulder, and difficulty raising the arm overhead.

If left untreated, rotator cuff impingement can lead to more serious conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder bursitis. Treatment for rotator cuff impingement typically involves rest, physical therapy to improve shoulder strength and flexibility, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.

Source: OrthoInfo

What causes rotator cuff impingement?

Rotator cuff impingement can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Overuse or repetitive strain: Overusing the shoulder joint or performing repetitive motions that involve overhead reaching, such as in sports like baseball or swimming, can lead to inflammation and irritation of the rotator cuff tendons, which can eventually result in impingement.
Age-related changes: As people age, the tendons of the rotator cuff can become weaker and more susceptible to injury and impingement.
Poor posture: Poor posture, such as rounded shoulders, can contribute to impingement by putting extra pressure on the rotator cuff tendons.
Shoulder instability: Instability in the shoulder joint, such as due to a previous injury or congenital condition, can lead to abnormal movement patterns that contribute to impingement.
Bone spurs: Bone spurs can develop on the underside of the acromion bone in the shoulder, which can narrow the space where the rotator cuff tendons pass through and lead to impingement.
Muscle imbalances: Imbalances in the strength and flexibility of the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint can contribute to impingement by altering the mechanics of shoulder movement.
Trauma: Acute trauma or injury to the shoulder, such as a fall or a sudden blow to the shoulder, can cause inflammation and impingement of the rotator cuff tendons.

Overall, rotator cuff impingement is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, medication or surgery. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing shoulder pain or weakness, as early intervention can help to prevent further damage and improve overall shoulder function.

Source: WebMD

How can physical therapy help with rotator cuff impingement?

Physical therapy is an important component of the treatment plan for rotator cuff impingement, as it can help to reduce pain, improve shoulder strength and flexibility, and prevent further damage to the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. A physical therapist can work with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and goals.

Physical therapy for rotator cuff impingement may involve a combination of exercises to improve shoulder mobility and strength, manual therapy to reduce pain and inflammation, and education on proper posture and body mechanics to prevent further injury. Some specific physical therapy interventions that may be used to treat rotator cuff impingement include:

Range-of-motion exercises: These exercises can help to improve shoulder mobility and flexibility, which can reduce pain and prevent further impingement of the rotator cuff tendons.
Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the strength of the rotator cuff muscles and other muscles in the shoulder, which can reduce pain and improve overall shoulder function.
Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques, such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization, can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint.
Education and body mechanics training: Physical therapists can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics during daily activities, such as lifting and carrying objects, to reduce the risk of further injury.

Overall, physical therapy is an effective treatment for rotator cuff impingement, as it can help to reduce pain, improve shoulder function, and prevent further damage to the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. Patients should work closely with their physical therapist to develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and goals.

Source: ChoosePT

Frequently asked questions

Meet our therapists

Click below to learn more about all of our therapists in your area

Patients trust Mobile Rehab

The physical therapist came to our house and carefully reviewed our case. He designed therapies and strategies that have worked well for us. For example, my husband could not get off the floor by himself and I could not lift him when he fell. Together we learned techniques to cope with this situation in our home. Joshua designed fun and effective exercises to improve strength and flexibility. My husband can now get in and out of chairs and cars without help and walks more easily. Since we used equipment in and around the home, my husband can remember and apply what he has learned. Mobile Rehab accepted our insurance and worked out approval to provide services. We did not need a referral from our doctor. My husband and I highly recommend Mobile Rehab if you or a loved one needs physical therapy.Jerry from Pittsboro

I wanted to tell you how much better I think Mom is since starting your PT. She has been less off balance, quicker to equilibrate to standing, and has had more stamina. I also think she is less depressed and feels more accomplished. Josh has been prompt and polite, as well as engaging in conversation to make Mom feel at ease. Thank you!Karen Pool - Google Review

In my many years of experience with PT for a variety of injuries, I have never worked with a therapist as knowledgeable, energetic, patient, and committed to my recovery and health as Celeste. She is interested in the cause of the problem and finding solutions, rather than only dealing with superficial symptoms. The manual work she does always leaves me feeling better and the exercises/stretches she has taught me target exactly where the problems lie. I can tell that I’m noticeably stronger and more flexible because of them. Anyone who gets to work with Celeste is lucky indeed! Judy R - 72 years young 😉

Both my husband and I are working with Amy, a PT for Mobile Rehab. She has been helping me after knee replacement surgery, and is working with my husband with balance, strengthening and walking. She is a gem! She is enthusiastic, engaging, and always positive. I would gladly recommend Amy and Mobile Rehab to anyone who needs physical therapy!Mona Harrison - Google Review

Oh my goodness, I cannot say enough good things about my therapist, Jennifer. After having a complete shoulder replacement and being discharged by my doctor, he recommended that I could still need therapy to help get me back to “normal”. My friend in Asheville recommended Jennifer to me. I set up an appointment and Jen showed up, right on time, at my apartment with her folding table in tow. She was so knowledgeable about how my shoulder worked, the muscles, tendons and the rotator cuff. After working on the painful spots I complained about, she set up a plan to work out the stiffness and soreness. Now, after 2 visits per week for four weeks, I feel like a new woman. At her last visit, she gave me the coping skills I needed to keep my shoulder in good shape. I am so impressed with her work that I recommend her highly as my most favored therapist.Jane Cumby - Google Review

Deb's professional manner is greatly appreciated as she continues to help me maintain my mobility with a variety of exercises and movements. Her positive attitude during my sessions gives me a sense of well-being.Nancy C. - Google Review

Erin Rankin and Cheryl Reid are skilled physical therapists. As a Parkinson's patient, I have benefited greatly from their expertise. I feel that by keeping my muscles stretched, I have contributed to my current state of mobility. If they are going to be a few minutes late, they are thoughtful and considerate by sending a text to me. When scheduling appointments, efforts are made to accommodate my specific timing needs. Due to the longevity of our relationships, levels of trust have been built. Their pleasant personalities add to the care they give. I look forward to seeing them each week. Nancy C - Google Review

The therapist from Mobile Rehab has been fantastic and very helpful to me. She clearly is the best PT I have ever had.Laureen F of Chapel Hill

Each time a PT moves on we think no one could be as good and them amazingly they seem to be even better. Have used for years and always with great satisfactionSue Clark - Google Review

I have been so impressed with Mobile Rehab. I've been working with Lacey K. DPT. post-op for a knee replacement. She is extremely professional, answers all of my questions and it seems not to bother her if I ask the same question again! She works me hard and that's what I need. She'll tell me either I'm doing it right or will correct me in a very calm and pleasant manner. Lacey explains everything I'm doing and why. I can't say enough good things about Mobile Rehab especially Lacey!Mary Beth Bryman - Google Review

Use your insurance or pay privately

No prescription is needed to start. Mobile Rehab is covered by insurance and provides in-home physical therapy.

Medicare

$0 per visit

Many Medicare plans with a supplement policy will cover all of our fees.

Commercial Insurance

Same as a clinic

Pay the same copay as if you went to a clinic for therapy. We accept many major insurances and will verify your benefits before starting.

Private Pay

$120

Easy payment options available.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Contact Us by Phone, Email, or Fax
We’ll help you check your insurance benefits. You do not need to be homebound and you should not be currently receiving any other physical therapy or skilled nursing services in the home.
Schedule an Evaluation
We will match you with a therapist and have them contact you to plan a date, time and location that works best for you.
It’s That Easy!
We make it simple to get the care you need… and exceed your expectations while doing so.

SERVICES

Fall Prevention

We provide research-based, individualized fall prevention interventions that have been shown to greatly reduce your risk of falling and injuries, including the OTAGO fall prevention program.

Click here to
learn more about OTAGO

General Rehab

Avoid driving to a clinic and get the individualized care you deserve. We work with many conditions ranging from post-stroke, Parkinson’s, vertigo to rotator cuff dysfunction and much more. Contact us for details.

After Home Health

We can improve care continuity by providing in home therapy even after you have been discharged by a Home Health agency. Avoid the hassle of driving and continue to make progress towards your goals.

Strength and Conditioning

We can help you improve your strength, mobility, range of motion, or any other functional limitations that impair your daily activity.

Pain Relief

We develop individualized care plans to help manage your aches and pains through exercise and hands-on techniques.