Shoulder Pain in Ann Arbor

Find Relief from Nagging Shoulder Pain in Ann Arbor

If your shoulder has been letting you down lately, you’re not alone. Shoulder pain affects an estimated 20% of the population at any given time. Whether caused by injury, poor posture, overuse, or simply getting older, shoulder problems can seriously disrupt your active lifestyle.

The good news is that with the right treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals, you can get back to full function. The physical therapists at On Track Physiotherapy have more than a decade of experience addressing all causes of shoulder pain, using proven methods to get you feeling like yourself again.

Understanding Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort in the shoulder joint or surrounding tissue, characterized by:

• Sharp pangs when reaching or moving your arm
• Dull aches that nag you all-day
• Difficulty lifting objects such as groceries
• Sleep disruptions from shoulder discomfort
• Loss of flexibility and full range of motion

The complexity of the shoulder joint means it is vulnerable to dysfunction. Conditions commonly underlying shoulder pain include:

• Rotator Cuff Problems: Tendonitis, tears, or impingement cause pain in the muscles stabilizing your shoulder.
• Arthritis: Rheumatoid or osteoarthritis in the joint leads to inflammation and breakdown of cartilage.
• Strains and Sprains: Overstretching or tearing ligaments or muscles from sudden wrenching motions or overuse.

Shoulder pain affects your daily life and prevents participation in activities you love. Letting it go unchecked can lead to chronic loss of function over time. The sooner it is addressed through physical therapy, the better your chances of making a full recovery.

A Plan to Bounce Back From Shoulder Pain in Ann Arbor

The physical therapists at On Track Physiotherapy are shoulder pain experts, with advanced certifications in orthopedics and sports medicine rehabilitation. Shoulder treatment is among our specialties, using a mix of hands-on techniques and customized exercise regimens tailored to each patient based on:

• Your unique injury or condition causing pain
• Posture analysis determining strains affecting your shoulder
• Activity goals—whether returning to tennis, golf, weight lifting or just fewer aches when gardening

With a thorough assessment of your situation and lifestyle, our therapists create a shoulder-centered treatment plan that fits you. We focus on both short-term pain relief and long-term restoration of strength and function so you can get back to the activities you love pain-free.

Methods We Use to Alleviate Shoulder Pain

Our comprehensive shoulder pain relief programs utilize proven techniques to reduce discomfort while correcting any muscle imbalances or instability underlying the issue:

Pain Management and Inflammation Reduction

• Manual therapy including joint mobilization and soft tissue massage
• Cold laser therapy to accelerate healing
• Heat/ice application

Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility

• Assisted shoulder stretching to targeted tight areas
• Passive range of motion exercises to restore mobility
• Dry needling to release muscle knots and spasms

Strengthening and Muscle Imbalance Correction

• Elastic resistance training to stabilize the shoulder
• Scapula and rotator cuff targeted exercises
• Proprioceptive exercises to ‘retrain’ shoulder neuromuscular control

Posture Correction and Patient Education

• Ergonomic and activity modifications to reduce strain
• Postural correction and body mechanics training
• Home exercise program for self-management

With regular therapy focused on your shoulder two or more times per week, most patients experience significant improvement in as little as 4-6 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if shoulder pain is serious?
Shoulder pain is considered serious if it:
Occurs suddenly after injury or accident
Causes significant loss of strength or range of motion
Lasts more than 1 week with no improvement
Is accompanied by numbness, swelling or bruising
See a doctor to evaluate serious shoulder injuries requiring prompt medical attention.

How do I get my shoulder to stop hurting?
Applying heat, taking anti-inflammatories, and avoiding aggravating activities can temporarily reduce shoulder pain, but the most effective way to stop recurring shoulder pain is through targeted physical therapy. Our tailored interventions correct underlying issues for long-term relief.

What can cause shoulder pain without injury?
Shoulder joint degeneration, muscle strains from overuse, pinched nerves, poor posture, and simple wear and tear from getting older can all cause shoulder pain without a specific injury. A physical therapist can determine the cause and address it.

Why does my shoulder hurt all of a sudden?
Sudden sharp shoulder pain often occurs from abrupt motions like reaching or throwing that overstretch ligaments or muscle fibers. Partial tendon tears and pinched nerves can also manifest as sudden pain. Seeking prompt treatment improves healing.
Our therapists thoroughly evaluate the cause of sudden pain and customize programs to restore function. Call 734-972-6529 to schedule an assessment.

Meet Your Shoulder Pain Relief Team

Dr. Morgan Kennedy leads our orthopedic rehabilitation programs. With years of experience treating shoulder injuries, she holds a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT). Dr. Morgan Kennedy works closely with every patient to ensure complete recovery meeting their unique needs and goals.

Start Your Shoulder Pain Relief Today

If shoulder pain is limiting your functionality and quality of life, don’t wait to seek help. Early intervention leads to the best long-term recovery results. Call 734-972-6529 or book an appointment online to have your shoulder thoroughly evaluated by our specialist team. We will customize a treatment plan centered on your unique needs to minimize shoulder pain and restore comfort and strength, so you can get back to the activities important to you.

About The Author

Dr. Greg Schaible ignites movement in patients facing Certified Strength & Conditioning and Sports Rehab. His years of dedication unlock physical potential for a better quality of life. At On Track Physiotherapy in Ann Arbor, Dr. Greg Schaible wields a patient-centered approach, wielding cutting-edge techniques and bespoke care plans to conquer a vast array of physical challenges.