Rotator Cuff Tendinitis When the tendons around the shoulder joint become inflamed, you might feel a dull ache deep in the shoulder, especially when lifting your arm or reaching behind you. How it’s treated:

• Guided strengthening to stabilize the joint
• Manual therapy to reduce inflammation
• Ice and activity modification to allow healing
• Gradual return to overhead motion without pain

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome This occurs when the shoulder’s soft tissues get pinched between bones during movement. It often causes sharp pain when lifting your arm or lying on your side. How it’s treated:

• Postural training to improve alignment
• Targeted exercises to reposition the shoulder blade
• Stretching tight chest or shoulder muscles
• Mobility work to clear space in the joint

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) This starts as simple stiffness and slowly limits movement in every direction. It’s more common in adults over 40 and can take months to resolve without help. How it’s treated:

• Gentle stretching to improve joint flexibility
• Passive range-of-motion therapy to regain movement
• Heat and manual techniques to loosen the capsule
• Education to avoid further restrictions during recovery

Progress is slow but steady with the right approach and consistent sessions. Shoulder Bursitis This condition involves inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint. It can cause swelling, tenderness, and pain during movement. How it’s treated:

• Activity modification to reduce joint stress
• Manual therapy and soft tissue release
• Specific exercises to improve joint spacing
• Modalities like ice or ultrasound for inflammation

Labral Tears This issue affects the cartilage ring inside the shoulder socket. This issue is common and can happen from trauma, sports, or repetitive motion. You might notice clicking, instability, or a deep ache in the joint. How it’s treated:

• Strengthening of surrounding muscles for joint stability
• Movement retraining to prevent further damage
• Range-of-motion work to reduce stiffness
• Surgery only if rehab doesn’t restore function

Shoulder Instability Some shoulders have trouble staying in place do to don’t stay in place due to repeated dislocations or a general weakness and slipping during movement. How it’s treated:

• Focused strengthening of stabilizing muscles
• Proprioception training to improve joint control
• Avoiding risky or overhead movements early on
• Long-term support and return-to-activity guidance

Relief Starts with the Right Evaluation Shoulder pain doesn’t have to require surgery or depend on long-term medication. The right treatment starts with a clear diagnosis and a care plan that’s built around your body and your goals. Contact our experts at Modern Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine of West Mesa, AZ.