Shoulder pain can be caused by many things, but one of the more common issues later in life is arthritic changes. These changes can be caused by repetitive overhead movements throughout life, abnormal biomechanics leading to abnormal wear patterns, structural differences within the shoulder, or a combination these factors.  This often leads to impingement within the shoulder, which is the rubbing of the humerus on the acromioclavicular arch.  If the shoulder does not respond to conservative treatments, arthroscopic surgery to clean up the joint may be indicated.  If the surgeon finds that acromion has a type II or more often a type III shape, they may decide to remove this portion to allow for more room within the joint space, reducing impingement. 

Both of these surgeries often have a short time period of immobility with a sling, but can start activity relatively early compared to other shoulder surgeries.  We consider surgery a controlled trauma to the tissues, and when there is trauma to tissues we see muscle inhibition (weakness), altered biomechanics and loss of range of motion.  This is why we feel it is important to seek skilled physical therapy services to be assessed, and have these potential problems addressed. Our therapist has multiple years of experience working with post surgical patients, and communicate throughout the process with the surgeon to ensure optimal recovery. 

Associated Symptoms:

• Shoulder Pain
• Decreased range of motion
• Muscle atrophy
• Shoulder clicking/popping
• Weakness
• Neck pain