Physical Therapy for shoulder pain

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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 are common causes of shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can have many different causes, including:

Rotator cuff injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. Injury to the rotator cuff can cause pain and weakness in the shoulder.
Frozen shoulder: Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It is caused by the formation of scar tissue within the joint.
Shoulder impingement syndrome: This condition occurs when the tendons and bursa in the shoulder become compressed or pinched, causing pain and inflammation.
Bursitis: Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. When they become inflamed, it can cause pain and swelling in the shoulder.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can both cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint.
Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder can cause pain and weakness.
Fracture: A broken bone in the shoulder can cause pain, swelling, and bruising.
Dislocation: A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone comes out of the shoulder blade. It can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm.
Pinched nerve: Compression of a nerve in the shoulder can cause pain and numbness.
Overuse: Repetitive overhead movements, such as those used in sports or manual labor, can cause shoulder pain and inflammation.

These are just a few of the common causes of shoulder pain. It is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Source: OrthoInfo

What are the symptoms of shoulder pain?

The symptoms of shoulder pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

Pain: Pain in the shoulder is the most common symptom of shoulder pain. It may be a dull ache, a sharp stabbing pain, or a burning sensation.
Stiffness: Stiffness in the shoulder joint can make it difficult to move the arm or perform everyday activities.
Weakness: Weakness in the shoulder can make it difficult to lift or carry objects, or perform tasks that require overhead reaching.
Swelling: Swelling or inflammation around the shoulder joint can cause pain and restrict movement.
Clicking or popping: Some people may experience clicking or popping sounds in the shoulder joint when they move their arm.
Numbness or tingling: Compression of a nerve in the shoulder can cause numbness or tingling in the shoulder or down the arm.
Difficulty sleeping: Shoulder pain can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position, which can affect sleep quality.

It is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

Source: Penn Medicine

How can physical therapy help with shoulder pain?

Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for shoulder pain. A physical therapist will assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals. Here are some ways that physical therapy can help with shoulder pain:

Stretching and strengthening exercises: Physical therapy can include exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint. These exercises can help to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and increase strength and stability in the shoulder.
Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and stretching can help to reduce pain and improve mobility in the shoulder joint.
Modalities: Physical therapists may use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder.
Posture correction: Poor posture can contribute to shoulder pain. A physical therapist can teach you exercises and techniques to improve your posture and reduce stress on your shoulder joint.
Education: A physical therapist can educate you on proper body mechanics and techniques to avoid further injury to your shoulder joint.
Activity modification: Depending on the cause of your shoulder pain, a physical therapist may recommend modifications to your daily activities or work habits to reduce stress on your shoulder joint.

Physical therapy can be a conservative, non-invasive approach to treating shoulder pain. By working with a physical therapist, you can improve your shoulder function and reduce pain without the need for surgery or medication.

Source: Mayo Clinic

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.