EPA- The Shoulder

How can physiotherapy affect my shoulder pain and dysfunction

Physiotherapy management of your shoulder pain/injury typically includes:

• Pain relieving modalities
• Manual therapy or ‘hands on’ therapy to address joint stiffness
• Specific rotator cuff strengthening exercises
• Scapular stabilization exercises (training of the shoulder blade muscles)
• Patient education
• Range of motion exercises
• Stretching exercises
• Taping

What can I expect from physiotherapy for my shoulder pain?

Shoulder injuries are among the most commonly treated injuries by physiotherapists.  At EPA,

the shoulder joint represents an area of much challenge, interest and ongoing research. 

During your initial visit you will be assessed and treated by a Registered Physiotherapist.  You will be asked a series of questions to help determine the exact cause and nature of your injury followed by a detailed physical examination.  This exam will involve evaluation of your posture, muscle bulk, strength and co-ordination, as well as your shoulder and shoulder girdle movements.  

A patient-specific treatment plan will be developed and based on the information collected during this initial visit.  Patients will be provided with home exercises to complement their physiotherapy treatment.

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

• Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
• Rotator Cuff Tear
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
• Bursitis
• Muscle Weakness and Imbalances
• Referred pain from the cervical spine (neck)

The most common cause of shoulder pain is injury to the rotator cuff.  The rotator cuff is a complex of four muscles that attach from the shoulder blade (scapula) to the arm bone (humerus).  The primary function of the rotator cuff is to provide stability to the shoulder joint especially in positions and activities with the arm elevated as with reaching and overhead lifting and sports.  These muscles provide stability by keeping the ball of the arm bone centered in the joint socket. 

What happens with a Rotator Cuff injury?