When people seek physical therapy for shoulder pain
Shoulder pain can affect reaching overhead, dressing, lifting, sleeping on that side, and work or sport demands. People may seek physical therapy when pain or stiffness limits what they can do, when they want to understand why movement feels different, or during recovery after injury when it may be appropriate.
Physical therapy may be appropriate for many types of shoulder pain, but it is not right for everyone or every situation. If you have questions about whether care is appropriate for you, call the clinic or discuss it with your physician.
How physical therapy may help
Physical therapy starts with evaluation. Your therapist will ask about your history and goals, observe how you move, and assess strength, flexibility, and movement patterns. Based on what the evaluation reveals, you will work together to build a plan.
Exercise
Individualized exercises to support strength, flexibility, and functional movement. Your program is adapted to your current abilities and what you are working to return to.
Education
Understanding how your body is moving and what may support recovery. This includes strategies for daily activities and movement patterns.
Manual therapy
Hands-on techniques when appropriate to support mobility, flexibility, and tissue function. Manual therapy is one part of a broader plan that includes exercise and education.
Modalities when appropriate
Therapeutic modalities such as electrical stimulation may be selected when appropriate to support your plan. Your therapist will discuss whether they are suited to your situation.
Home strategies
Guidance for what you can practice at home to support the work you do during visits. Your therapist will discuss strategies suited to your life and goals.
For more on exercise-based care, see: Therapeutic exercise.
For more on hands-on care, see: Manual therapy.
For more on electrical stimulation, see: Therapeutic modalities.
What a first visit may include
Your first appointment is typically an evaluation. You will discuss your history, symptoms, and what you hope to work on. Your therapist will observe how you move, assess strength and flexibility, and work with you to outline a plan. First visits are usually longer than follow-up visits to allow time for conversation and assessment.
- Conversation about your history and functional goals
- Movement and musculoskeletal assessment
- Discussion of findings in plain language
- Collaborative plan and strategies for home
Related concerns
Shoulder symptoms can overlap with how the neck moves or with back discomfort. Physical therapy plans can address multiple areas when appropriate. Care is individualized based on your evaluation and goals.
For related musculoskeletal questions, see: Physical therapy for neck pain or Physical therapy for back pain.
Insurance & referrals
PT 1st participates with several major insurance plans and Medicare, including Medicare, Workers’ Compensation, Aetna, Health Net, Blue Cross, and others. Many insurance plans cover physical therapy when medically necessary, but benefits, referral requirements, and authorization rules vary by plan.
We encourage you to call the clinic with your insurance information before your first visit so we can verify your coverage and help you understand what may be needed.
View insurance & payment optionsWhen to call the clinic
If you have questions about scheduling, insurance coverage, whether a referral is needed, or whether physical therapy is appropriate for your situation, call (323) 246-4616. The clinic team can help you understand what to expect and what may be needed before your first visit.
This article is general education. It is not a substitute for evaluation or personalized medical advice from your physician or physical therapist. Seek medical care for severe or emergency symptoms that concern you.