Physical Therapy

Our Physical Therapy Services
The physical therapy team at Lawrence General Hospital are experts in various specialties. Click the appropriate section below to learn more about a specific PT service.

Orthopedic
Sports Medicine
Aquatic Therapy
Women's Health: Pelvic Floor
Post-COVID Recovery Program
Vestibular

Content Spotlight:
From Impingement to Ergonomics - Understanding and Alleviating Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common complaint that affects individuals of all ages and lifestyles. It can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Various factors can contribute to shoulder pain, including shoulder impingement, frozen shoulder, cartilage tears, and poor ergonomic setups. In this blog post, we will delve into these causes and explore how LGH physical therapists and ergonomic evaluations by professionals can effectively address these shoulder ailments.

1. Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become compressed and irritated as they pass through a narrow space beneath the acromion (a part of the shoulder blade). This condition is often a result of repetitive overhead movements, poor posture, or muscle imbalances. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, and restricted range of motion.

How Physical Therapy Helps:

- Strengthening Exercises: Physical therapists design tailored exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, improving stability and reducing the risk of impingement.
- Posture Correction: Therapists work on correcting posture imbalances that contribute to impingement, helping to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence.
- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises help restore the shoulder's full range of motion.

2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, limiting its range of motion. The condition typically develops in three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing. It can be triggered by injury, prolonged immobility, or underlying medical conditions.

How Physical Therapy Helps:

- Gradual Mobilization: Physical therapists guide patients through a progressive series of exercises to gradually increase shoulder movement and reduce stiffness.
- Manual Techniques: Therapists use hands-on techniques to help break up scar tissue and adhesions that contribute to the frozen shoulder.
- Patient Education: Patients are educated on proper exercises and techniques to perform at home to expedite the recovery process.

3. Cartilage Tears

Cartilage tears, such as labral tears, can result from trauma, overuse, or degenerative changes. These tears can cause pain, weakness, and instability in the shoulder joint.

How Physical Therapy Helps:

- Strengthening Weak Muscles: Physical therapists create personalized exercise programs to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, providing better support to the injured area.
- Functional Rehabilitation: Therapists focus on exercises that mimic daily activities, promoting improved function and stability in the shoulder.
- Pain Management: Therapists employ modalities like ice, heat, and manual therapy to manage pain and inflammation.

4. Poor Ergonomic Set-Up

A poor ergonomic set-up, such as improper desk height, chair design, or computer placement, can lead to chronic shoulder pain. Incorrect posture during prolonged periods of work can strain the shoulder muscles and joints.

How Ergonomic Evaluation Helps:

- Professional Assessment: Ergonomic specialists evaluate the workspace and recommend adjustments to optimize posture and reduce strain on the shoulders.
- Workspace Modifications: Recommendations may include adjusting chair height, monitor placement, keyboard position, and using ergonomic accessories.
- Education: Individuals are educated about maintaining proper posture and taking regular breaks to prevent shoulder pain caused by poor ergonomics.

Shoulder pain can significantly affect an individual's well-being and productivity. Engaging in physical therapy for targeted exercises, manual techniques, and posture correction, as well as seeking an ergonomic evaluation for workspace adjustments, can provide holistic solutions to alleviate shoulder ailments. Remember, early intervention and consistent effort are key to promoting shoulder health and preventing long-term discomfort. If you're experiencing persistent shoulder pain, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.

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