Due to hurricane damage, the Havelock location is closed until further notice. Havelock therapists Hannah Zhang, Sarah Hall and Judy Hickes are available to see patients at the New Bern location. Please call the New Bern location at (252) 636-9800 to discuss your care.

3 PT methods that can help reduce how long you have shoulder pain after surgery

Shoulder Pain After Surgery

If you’ve had shoulder surgery, you’re likely feeling some pain or having difficulty when moving your arm around. Most of the time, this pain and stiffness are temporary. Many people can get through it by doing physical therapist-recommended exercises at home.

Yet, if you are suffering from severe shoulder pain after an operation that doesn’t seem to be improving, it may be time to visit a physical therapist. These medical professionals have special methods they can use to ease your shoulder pain. They can also help reduce how long you have shoulder pain after surgery. Let’s take a look at three of these methods that are safe and effective.

What can keep me in pain longer after shoulder surgery?

An extensive post-surgical recovery program is crucial for ensuring a proper recovery following shoulder surgery. Muscle stiffness and weakening of the shoulder joint are typical problems after shoulder procedures. They are often brought on by a lack of physical exercise, whether that be before surgery or during your initial recovery. Both factors can increase how long you’re in pain after surgery.

A physical therapy plan can help you reduce your chances of these symptoms. It can also help you reduce how long you’re in pain following your shoulder surgery.

Physical therapy methods that can help ease pain rapidly after shoulder surgery

  1. Electrical stimulation — Electric stimulation is a technique for reducing pain. It makes use of an electrical stimulation device with self-adhesive electrodes. The electrodes are placed on the body where you’re feeling pain; these electrodes are attached to the device via wire leads through which electrical energy can flow. Low-power electrical pulses are then sent through the wires to interrupt pain signals being sent through the nerves in the area.
  1. Manual therapy — A physical therapist may use manual therapy methods on the soft tissue and joints to decrease inflammation, improve range of movement and lessen pain. A physical therapist may utilize several manual physical therapy methods based on the evaluation before treatment starts.
  1. Range-of-motion exercisesThese exercises aim to help you develop a better range of motion in your affected joint. This may be achieved through active, assisted or passive range-of-motion exercises. Your physical therapist can create a unique combination of these exercises intended to help your joints move much better and cut pain.

Find effective physical therapy for shoulder pain after surgery at Peak Performance

Are you looking for physical therapy treatment to improve the recovery of your shoulder? Physical therapists can treat your shoulder pain at Peak Performance Physical Therapy. A free screening can be performed to determine the cause of your shoulder pain. The therapists at our clinic can also formulate a customized physical therapy plan for you that will reduce your pain and prevent it from returning.

Please contact our staff if you are experiencing shoulder pain for more information or to schedule an appointment with our team.