Physiotherapy Centre

Good shoulder function is essential for many sporting and work tasks and your local physiotherapy centre will certainly testify to shoulder dysfunction resulting in a substantial loss to quality of life. The shoulder is a complicated joint. It is a ‘ball and socket’ joint that depends heavily on the ligamentous structures as well as various muscles (referred to as rotator cuff) to give it stability and enable good function. It operates very closely with the cervical spine as well as the thoracic spine (area between shoulder blades) to permit full and pain-free motion. The intricate structure of the shoulder causes it to be very vulnerable to injuries. There are many reasons for shoulder girdle discomfort ranging from major injuries such as dislocation and bone fracture, to strains of the rotator cuff muscles and to pain that starts slowly and worsens over time. The key to successful treatment is based on correct diagnosis. This can only be achieved from a detailed assessment with a physio.



A physio brisbane will perform an assessment. This will involve an extensive examination of the glenohumeral joint which will include examining the range of motion as well as assessing the muscles. Additionally, it will include an examination of your neck and also thoracic spine to make sure that the shoulder problem is not referred from here. During the review, the physiotherapist will look for any unusual movement patterns of the shoulder girdle. This is often as a result of joint stiffness or muscle imbalances; when some muscles do an increased amout of work while others don’t do enough, probably as a result of decreased strength. It is very important that any biomechanical issues are addressed so that the problem doesn’t recur.



Treatment techniques will vary significantly and will depend on things that are contributing to your shoulder problem. Mobilization of the glenohumeral joint as well as the upper back will assist with loosening up the region and will enable greater range of motion. If your symptoms are referred from another region then this will also be treated. Any tense structures around the shoulder and nearby regions will be treated with deep tissue massage, trigger point releasing, stretching exercises and possibly dry needling (acupuncture) by your physio to ease any areas of tension and spasm. Strengthening any weak muscles of the shoulder is really important, and because of this, your personalized physiotherapy treatment program will involve some form of home exercise; either a strengthening regime to enhance the control of the shoulder girdle or exercises to work on decreasing tightness in the region..



Occasionally it may be necessary to carry out investigations to help determine the exact reason behind the symptoms; This may involve an x-ray or a referral on to an orthopaedic specialist and will be discussed with you if need be



Problems wth the shoulder girdle can be some of the most complex and painful injuries. It is really important to visit your trusted physiotherapist as soon as these injuries arise to ensure a treatment plan can be set in place to guarantee your quality of life returns to normal as soon as possible.