Shoulder Pain

Chiropratic and/or Physical Therapy For Shoulder Pain In Appleton

Shoulder pain can disrupt your daily life, from dressing in the morning to enjoying your favorite activities or sports. At our clinic, we provide cutting-edge physical therapy, sports medicine, and chiropractic treatments designed to help you recover and regain full function. Below, we outline common shoulder conditions we treat and explain how we approach their management.

Shoulder impingement, often referred to as subacromial pain syndrome, occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa (a fluid-filled sac) are compressed under the acromion, a bony structure of the shoulder blade. This condition often leads to pain and difficulty with overhead movements. Traditional approaches have focused on structural issues, but newer functional perspectives emphasize individualized treatment to address impairments specific to the patient. While the term "impingement" remains widely recognized, it may not fully capture the complexity of the condition.

Our treatment approach includes manual therapy, manipulation of the upper back and ribs, joint mobilization, and soft tissue techniques to the shoulder girdle. We also incorporate scapular and rotator cuff strengthening exercises. We may also utilize advanced modalities such as laser therapy and shockwave therapy when appropriate.

Rotator cuff tendinopathy and rotator cuff tears are common causes of shoulder pain. Tendinopathy reflects a degenerative process rather than true inflammation, and tears may vary from partial to complete. These conditions often coexist with biceps tendinopathy, as the two structures work closely in shoulder function.

Treatment focuses on addressing individual impairments. For tendinopathy, we use soft tissue techniques, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and targeted strengthening exercises. For tears, whether surgical or non-surgical, we emphasize restoring strength, mobility, and coordination in line with the patient’s functional goals.

Biceps tendinopathy can involve degeneration or instability of the tendon, including subluxation where the tendon slips out of its groove. Treatment includes techniques like transverse friction massage, strengthening exercises, and stabilization strategies. Avoiding aggravating activities and focusing on overall shoulder girdle stability are key to recovery.

Shoulder arthritis results from cartilage degeneration, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. While we cannot reverse arthritis, our treatments aim to relieve pain and improve function. Manual therapy, mobility exercises, strengthening, and modalities like laser therapy are central to our approach. Even in advanced cases potentially requiring surgery, maintaining strength and flexibility is vital.

Labrum tears, particularly common in overhead athletes, can cause pain, instability, or mechanical symptoms like catching. Many labrum tears can be managed conservatively through rehabilitation focused on posterior capsule flexibility, scapular stabilization, and rotator cuff strength. Techniques like dry needling for posterior musculature and stabilization exercises for the glenohumeral joint are frequently utilized. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, depending on the individual’s sport and symptoms.

Shoulder instability can present as anterior instability following dislocations or as multidirectional instability (MDI). MDI is typically non-operative and managed through strengthening and stabilization exercises. For anterior instability, we focus on dynamic stabilization while addressing pain and other impairments. Surgical referral may be considered for recurrent dislocations in younger patients.

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by three stages: freezing (painful), frozen (stiff), and thawing (recovery). This condition can persist for months and requires patience in treatment. Early interventions include laser therapy for pain relief and gentle stretching. As the condition progresses, shockwave therapy and more aggressive manual therapies may be introduced. Long-duration, low-load stretching has shown promise in improving mobility and function.

If shoulder pain is holding you back, don’t delay seeking care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your recovery journey.