Joint Mobilization for Musculoskeletal Conditions Affecting the Shoulder
By: Dr. Benjamin Hylka, PT, DPT
Musculoskeletal conditions and injuries can occur in various different locations in the body and can have several different causes. One is overuse; exercising too frequently or starting a new workout program that is too intense. Improper form is another common cause, which can place unnecessary strain or load on muscles, joints, and tendons.
In the case of muscular imbalance, weakness in certain muscles of the shoulder can cause other muscles to overcompensate and become strained. Postural deviations can alter the position of the shoulder leading to poor body mechanics.
Lastly, direct trauma to the shoulder, such as falling, can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
Common Shoulder Injuries
The shoulder is a complex joint and a common location of several different musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. One common condition is shoulder impingement, which is pain and inflammation caused by the rotator cuff tendons rubbing or getting pinched between bones in the shoulder.
Another is biceps tendonitis, pain or aching in the front of the shoulder where the biceps tendon attaches to the shoulder joint. Additionally there is adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), which is a thickening and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule leading to reduced mobility and range of motion.
What to Look For?
If you think you may be experiencing one of these conditions, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for, such as: Pain, tenderness, and stiffness of the shoulder; difficulty reaching forward, overhead or behind back; weakness, or difficulty lifting and carrying thing; discomfort when exercising; and the ability to fully participate in sports or exercise without pain.
For those affected by one of these conditions, physical therapy can help. One technique that physical therapists use to treat these conditions are joint mobilizations. Joint mobilizations are a hands-on manual therapy technique where a trained therapist applies skilled, controlled movements to a stiff or painful joint. These mobilizations can vary in amplitude and range within the joint, depending if the primary goal is to reduce pain or improve mobility.
What are Joint Mobilizations?
Joint mobilizations are effective in treating these conditions for several reasons. First, they help to stretch tight joint capsules and surrounding tissues to improve range of motion. Joint mobilizations also help to stimulate the production and spread of synovial fluid, lubricating the joint and allowing for less friction while moving. Additionally, they activate sensory receptors in the joint, which can inhibit pain signals and reduce discomfort. Lastly, joint mobilizations improve blood flow, which can aid in healing.
Joint mobilizations are a safe treatment that are appropriate for those experiencing joint pain or discomfort. Joint mobilizations, in conjunction with other physical therapy treatments, can help patients make a pain free return to activities of daily living, exercise programs, and sports participation.
At Proclinix Sports Physical Therapy and Chiropractic, joint mobilization is offered as part of our individualized and comprehensive treatment plan for patients. Joint mobilizations are offered by all of our licensed physical therapists and chiropractors.
Schedule an appointment now and take the first step towards a quick recovery!
Dr Benjamin Hylka, PT, DPTis a Physical Therapist at Lifetime Physical Therapy/ProClinix Sports Physical Therapy & Chiropractic in West Harrison, NY. For any questions regarding his article or to learn more about ProClinix, feel free to reach out to him at 914-290-5158 or via email at bhylka@proclinix.com. In addition to their West Harrison location, ProClinix has other convenient locations in Ardsley, Armonk, Mount Kisco, Pleasantville, Tarrytown, Larchmont and Yorktown. Offering physical therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture / dry needling, and massage therapy services where they accept most insurances and you do not need a prescription to get started!