Shoulder Pain Treatment by Expert Physical Therapists in Maryland

Shoulder Pain Treatment & Physical Therapy

Shoulder Pain Relief

Regain Your Mobility and Strength

Shoulder pain affects millions of Americans each year, limiting your ability to work, exercise, and perform daily activities. While some shoulder issues resolve on their own, many require professional care to prevent them from becoming chronic conditions.

Our specialized physical therapy team at startPTNow uses evidence-based techniques to diagnose and treat shoulder pain, helping you return to pain-free movement and prevent future injuries.

Physical therapist working with patient on shoulder rehabilitation

Shoulder Pain Q & A

What is shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain refers to any discomfort or pain in and around the shoulder joint, which is one of the most mobile and complex joints in your body. The pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations that may limit your ability to perform daily activities.

Many people experience temporary shoulder pain that resolves with rest, but persistent shoulder issues can develop into chronic conditions that affect your quality of life. Early intervention with physical therapy can prevent minor shoulder problems from becoming long-term limitations.

At startPTNow, we recommend seeking professional evaluation for shoulder pain that lasts more than a few days or significantly impacts your mobility and daily function.

What causes shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can result from acute injuries, repetitive strain, degenerative changes, or underlying medical conditions. The shoulder's complex structure makes it vulnerable to various issues. Common causes include:

Rotator cuff injuries and tears
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Bursitis and tendonitis
Shoulder instability and dislocations
Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
Labral tears
Fractures and bone spurs
Referred pain from neck issues

Your shoulder joint relies on a delicate balance of muscles, tendons, and ligaments to maintain stability while allowing extensive range of motion. When this balance is disrupted due to injury, overuse, or age-related changes, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.

Understanding the specific cause of your shoulder pain is essential for developing an effective treatment plan that addresses the root problem rather than just masking symptoms.

How can physical therapy help my shoulder pain?

Physical therapy provides a comprehensive approach to shoulder pain by addressing muscle imbalances, improving joint mobility, and restoring functional movement patterns. Our goal is not only to relieve your current pain but also to prevent future shoulder problems.

When you visit startPTNow for shoulder pain, our physical therapists conduct a thorough assessment to identify the specific structures involved and develop a personalized treatment strategy tailored to your needs and goals.

Your comprehensive evaluation includes assessment of range of motion, strength, posture, and functional movements. Based on our findings, we create a customized treatment plan that may include:

Manual Therapy Techniques

  • Joint mobilizations and manipulations
  • Soft tissue massage and myofascial release
  • Scapular and shoulder blade stabilization
  • Cross-friction massage for tendons
  • Muscle energy techniques
  • Postural correction strategies

Therapeutic Modalities

  • Ultrasound therapy for deep tissue healing
  • Electrical stimulation for pain management
  • Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization
  • Dry needling for trigger points
  • Heat and cold therapy applications
  • Taping techniques for support

Rehabilitation Exercises

  • Rotator cuff strengthening exercises
  • Scapular stabilization programs
  • Range of motion and flexibility training
  • Proprioception and balance exercises
  • Sport-specific rehabilitation
  • Home exercise programs

Most importantly, we empower you with the knowledge and tools to manage your shoulder health long-term, reducing the risk of recurrence and helping you return to the activities you love with confidence.

Get relief from your shoulder pain by calling StartPTNow or scheduling an appointment online today.