At A.B.E. Rehab, our specialized physical therapists are skilled in treating a variety of shoulder-related conditions, including:

Shoulder

  • Whether you're a professional athlete, a high school athlete, or simply enjoy an active lifestyle, sports injuries can happen. Shoulder sports injuries often result from falls onto outstretched arms or repetitive overhead movements like swimming or tennis. Imbalances in shoulder muscle groups can also contribute to these injuries, where one group is stronger than another.

    Our expert physical therapists specialize in the rehabilitation of sports injuries. Our priority is to help you recover quickly and safely, returning to your favorite sports activities pain-free. Whether it's a mild sprain or post-surgical recovery, trust us for the specialized care you need.

  • Shoulder fractures can result from falls or osteoporosis-related weakness, particularly in seniors. Fracture management aims to create a safe healing environment while preserving range of motion. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the bone with plates or screws, but this can lead to muscle weakness.

    Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder mobility and strength. Our therapists work closely with you and your physician to protect the healing fracture, gradually improve range of motion, alleviate pain, and enhance muscle function. By addressing underlying issues and promoting a safe recovery, we help you return to normal activities while minimizing long-term damage.

  • Shoulder surgeries are necessary to stabilize the shoulder, repair damaged tendons or ligaments. While arthroscopic surgery has improved recovery times, physical therapy remains essential for pain reduction, restoring range of motion, improving strength, and returning to normal activities.

    Our physical therapists assist in adapting to daily activities during recovery and provide inflammation and pain control. Gentle hands-on therapy soothes sore muscles and restores normal movement, alleviating muscle cramps and irritation caused by surgery.

  • Bursitis and tendonitis occur due to inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac) and tendons, respectively. In the shoulder, the sub-deltoid bursa can become inflamed, leading to pain during certain movements. Tendonitis commonly affects the rotator cuff and bicep tendons, causing sharp pain and catching sensations.

    Physical therapy is the primary treatment for these conditions, addressing underlying movement mechanics and weakness. Modalities may be used to relieve pain, while hands-on therapy improves joint mechanics. Gentle strengthening and coordination exercises restore stability and prevent symptom recurrence.

  • The rotator cuff consists of small but vital muscles surrounding the shoulder that facilitate its movement. When the rotator cuff is weak, the humerus head may collide with the acromion above, causing pain and limited arm mobility. Factors like sports injuries, falls, repetitive movements, poor posture, and heavy lifting can contribute to rotator cuff injuries, which may range from minor inflammation to major tears requiring surgery. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in both pre-surgical preparation and post-surgical rehabilitation.

    Physical therapists focus on reducing pain, improving shoulder range of motion, restoring joint mobility, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the rotator cuff. In collaboration with your physician, we tailor the therapy program to ensure a comprehensive recovery process, including communication and adherence to the physician's protocols.

  • Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that affects the shoulder joint. While its exact cause remains somewhat unknown, it often occurs after shoulder trauma or repetitive injury. Women in the pre and post-menopausal age range are more susceptible, but men can also experience it.

    Physical therapy plays a crucial role in accelerating frozen shoulder recovery (adhesive capsulitis). By seeking therapy early, the inflammatory cycle can be significantly reduced, minimizing scarring and capsule contraction. Physical therapy, combined with medication, helps manage pain and promotes faster healing.

  • A shoulder sprain involves ligament damage, while a strain affects the surrounding muscles. This injury occurs when the tissue is overstretched, resulting in micro-tearing and painful inflammation that worsens with movement. The severity of a sprain/strain can vary based on factors like injury severity, age, and overall health. Aging leads to decreased tissue elasticity, increasing the risk of tearing.

    Physical therapy plays a vital role in the recovery process. Initially, the focus is on reducing pain and inflammation while maintaining or restoring range of motion. As the inflammation subsides, emphasis shifts to achieving full range of motion and gradually strengthening the injured areas. Treatment concludes with shoulder joint coordination and education on injury prevention.

  • Shoulder dislocation often occurs from falls or blows to the shoulder. Medical management involves relocating the bone and prescribing physical therapy for shoulder joint stabilization during recovery.

    Physical therapy strengthens muscles around the shoulder, increasing stability and preventing future dislocations. In severe cases with cartilage, tendon, ligament, or muscle damage, surgery may be required. Post-surgery, physical therapy is crucial for protecting and rehabilitating the shoulder, gradually restoring range of motion and strength. Our therapists provide personalized care, addressing pain, protecting the joint, and guiding you towards full recovery and injury prevention.