Shoulder
Physical therapy for painful reaching, lifting, sleeping, sports, and post-surgical shoulder recovery.
Common symptoms and diagnoses treated
Rotator cuff pain, frozen shoulder, instability, strains, arthritis, tendon-related pain, and rehabilitation after shoulder surgery.
How one-on-one physical therapy may help
One-on-one care can restore comfortable motion and progressively rebuild the strength and control required for daily activity, work, or sport.
This information is educational and does not replace an individual evaluation or medical advice. Seek urgent medical care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Activities that may be difficult
Reaching overhead, dressing, sleeping on the affected side, lifting, carrying, throwing, and returning to work or sport.
What the evaluation may examine
Shoulder and neck mobility, strength, joint control, tendon loading tolerance, posture, and task-specific movement.
Treatment approaches may include
Manual therapy and mobility exercise
Rotator cuff and shoulder-blade strengthening
Progressive loading
Work- or sport-specific movement practice
Postoperative rehabilitation
Postoperative care follows the surgeon’s protocol while restoring range of motion, strength, joint control, and safe use of the arm over time.
Questions about this type of care
Can I attend therapy after shoulder surgery?
Yes, with the surgeon’s referral or protocol when required. Treatment is progressed according to healing and precautions.
Do I need an MRI before starting?
Not always. The physical therapist can evaluate movement and function, then advise when additional medical assessment may be appropriate.
Written for patient education and clinically reviewed by Ryan Dooley, DPT.
Let’s understand what is limiting you.
Request a call to discuss one-on-one physical therapy in Palatine, or call 847-686-3962.