Your shoulder is responsible for allowing your arm to rotate and lift objects. There are not many tasks that do not involve the use of your shoulders. Since your shoulder is made up of many ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones and cartilage, there are many ways for the joint to be injured.
It’s normal to have a sore shoulder or some minor shoulder pain throughout your life. In these cases, you usually only need some rest and simple home remedies. However, cases of serious shoulder pain will require professional health care assistance.
Shoulder conditions commonly treated by physical therapists
Severe and chronic shoulder pain can be the sign of a serious condition that could grow worse or lead to permanent disability if left untreated. It’s important to get a diagnosis from your doctor because these symptoms could indicate many kinds of injuries and conditions.
Some of the most common shoulder injuries that we treat at Whatcom Physical Therapy in Blaine, Washington include:
- Tendinitis — Tendinitis occurs from overuse and repetitive motions that cause one of your shoulder tendons to rub against the shoulder blade. This causes irritation and inflammation that is painful and could limit your range of motion.
- Bursitis — Bursitis is a condition in which the bursae (tiny sacs of fluid that cushion your joints) become irritated and inflamed. Bursitis is very painful and causes your shoulder to swell and lost its full range of motion.
- Dislocation — Strained and torn muscles, ligaments or tendons can result in a looser rotator cuff, which can lead to your shoulder popping out of the socket. A dislocated shoulder is painful and often immobilized.
- Arthritis — Arthritis is a painful condition more common in seniors that causes the cartilage in your shoulders to wear down, which leads to your bones rubbing against one another.
- Fracture — The bones in your shoulder can break due to impact or from weakness caused by osteoporosis. Some severe fractures may require surgery for treatment, but physical therapy can still help you before and after your surgery.
Schedule an appointment for shoulder pain in Blaine, Washington
The physical therapists at Whatcom Physical Therapy can help you recover from many types of pain and injury. Contact us today if you’re suffering from shoulder pain and would like to talk to a physical therapist about reducing your pain and restoring your strength and range of motion.
Our Blaine location:
250 G St.
Blaine, Washington 98230
Whatcom Physical Therapy serves residents of northwestern Washington from three different locations. Please visit our locations page if you would like to check out one of our other clinics.
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