Shoulder / Elbow / Wrist

Fractures of the shoulder, clavicle, and shoulder blade (scapula) often occur from trauma such as falling on an outstretched arm. For a displaced, or bad, fracture surgical intervention with plates and screws is indicated. Once the fracture is stable, physical therapy is indicated to reduce pain, increase range of motion, strength, scapular stability, and flexibility to progress to a speedy return to previous level of function.

Frozen shoulder is also known as adhesive capsulitis. The exact mechanism of why this condition occurs is not known. Pain is typically described as a general ache about the shoulder and there is a progressive loss of motion. If left untreated, frozen shoulders can take two to three years to heal. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, over 90 percent of patients recover with conservative treatments. Physical therapy can assist with pain control along with improving range of motion. As motion of the shoulder improves, exercises for strengthening and stabilization are provided. Rehabilitation for a frozen shoulder also includes posture education, joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, modalities, and a customized home exercise program.

A Colle’s fracture is the most common fracture of the wrist. This kind of fracture is sustained after a fall on an outstretched arm. The wrist is composed of two bones: the radius and ulna. A Colle’s fracture is a fracture of the radius. In more severe cases, the ulna may also be broken. In some cases, this fracture needs to be stabilized with surgery. A loss of strength and motion occurs due to the lack of use and mobility of the wrist as the fracture heals. Physical therapy can assist with the return of motion and strength to speed the recovery process. Rehabilitation post fracture includes: providing appropriate bracing if needed, stretching, strengthening exercises, soft tissue mobilization, modalities, and customized home exercise programs.

Golfer’s elbow is also known as medial epicondylitis. The action of the muscles that attach at this point of the elbow cause the wrist to flex. Pain described is similar to tennis elbow; a sharp or burning discomfort on the inside of the elbow which can progress into the forearm. Physical therapy treats this condition by providing appropriate bracing if needed, stretching, strengthening exercises, soft tissue mobilization, modalities, and customized home exercise programs.

Tennis elbow is also known as lateral epicondylitis. It is a form of tendonitis of the elbow commonly found in athletes that play racket sports and also in workers with jobs requiring repetition. The action of the muscles that attach at this point of the elbow cause the wrist to lift upward (extend). Pain is often described as a sharp or burning discomfort on the outside of the elbow which can progress into the forearm. It can occur with both elbow and/or wrist movements. Physical therapy treats this condition by providing appropriate bracing if needed, stretching, strengthening exercises, soft tissue mobilization, modalities, and customized home exercise programs.