Shoulders are dynamic joints that undergo immense pressure and rotation daily. Being an athlete myself, I’m sure you can understand I have a love-hate relationship with this joint. I was a softball pitcher who played volleyball and basketball in high school and college. My shoulders have had their fair share of work. I have rehabbed my own injuries and have helped many elite athletes prevent, recover and restore full function.
Here are a few things I’ve learned:
1. Everyone is different in their rehab needs-you cannot treat the shoulder with a cookie-cutter approach.
2. Prevention is key to maintaining an appropriate range of motion and muscle length to help prevent injuries. Get treated before you hurt!
3. A strong rotator cuff is not enough to prevent injury; you have to be able to control dynamic movement and deceleration of your arm.
4. Having strong legs can prevent energy leaks and prevent shoulder injuries.
5. Degenerative changes of your rotator cuff can happen throughout your lifetime but do not always need to be repaired surgically.
6. Sitting all day in a forward posture at your desk is not good for your shoulders.
7. Overhand sports like softball, tennis, lacrosse, swimming is often undertreated. If you have a shoulder, you will probably benefit from seeing us! We will help you reach your peak!
In Health,
Jill Marlan, PT, OMPT, MSPT, CSCS
CEO/ Founder
Shoulder injuries and pain are a common problem that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Physical therapy is often recommended as a non-invasive treatment option for shoulder injuries and pain. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of physical therapy for the shoulder, the different types of exercises that can be used, and what to expect during a physical therapy session.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for the Shoulder
Physical therapy for the shoulder has numerous benefits, including:
Pain Relief
Physical therapy can help reduce pain in the shoulder by strengthening the muscles around it, improving joint mobility, and reducing inflammation.
Improved Range of Motion
Physical therapy can help improve the range of motion in the shoulder by stretching and strengthening the muscles.
Improved Function
Physical therapy can improve the function of the shoulder, making it easier to perform daily tasks and activities.
Reduced Risk of Re-Injury
Physical therapy can help prevent future shoulder injuries by strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint and improving its stability.
C. L. Wilcox, DO
Luke Wilcox is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in sports medicine. He has gone into the field of medicine knowing that he wanted to work with people and help them improve their lifestyle and recover from injuries. Growing up and playing sports, Luke, unfortunately, had several injuries, but he was lucky enough to have the opportunity to work with several wonderful orthopedic surgeons who showed him the possibilities of being a doctor and helping people in their recovery process. Luke finds the best part of his job is getting to work with people on a daily basis, being able to interact with them and help them understand the pathology and problems they suffer from. In his spare time away from medicine, Luke enjoys spending time with his family, especially watching his kids participate in sports.
Matt McFadden – Clinical Director
All Clinics
Matt McFadden is the clinic director at Peak Performance Physical Therapy. He earned his Bachelor of Science in health fitness and his Master of Science in physical therapy from Central Michigan University. He is also a graduate of the Oakland University Orthopedic Manual Therapy Program. Matt is a clinical instructor for the Michigan State University Kinesiology Program, as well as for physical therapy programs throughout Michigan. Matt has served as a resident instructor in the OMPT Program at Oakland University. He has treated the spine, shoulder, and knee. Matt is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, Sports Physical Therapy Section, and Michigan Physical Therapy Association. Matt enjoys helping people of all ages return to what they love to do, whether it be playing competitive sports, or playing with their grandkids. In his free time, he enjoys being outdoors during summer and spending time with his wife and children. 19 years of experience treating patients with orthopedic conditions, and he specializes in
We know how awesome Matt is. Now we want to hear from you. Please take a moment and share your experience with Matt.
Allison Woodland – Marketing Assistant
All Clinics
Allison grew up locally and graduated from Lansing Christian High School. She attended Alma College and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Photography. Following graduation, Allison interned at Two Men and a Truck in their marketing department where she grew her passion for marketing. After her internship she was the Marketing Assistant at Peak Performance Physical Therapy and has been enjoying working with such an amazing company.
In her free time, Allison likes to read books, cultivate plants, try new cake recipes, and spend time with her puppy Thea.
See how it’s done. Click the link below!
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Managing Shoulder Pain
There are simple and effective ways that you can treat your shoulder pain at home. These include Healthy Lifestyle Changes; Exercise; Healthy Posture and Body Mechanics; and Ice and Heat.
- Shoulder Blade Squeezes: To do shoulder blade squeezes, begin standing or sitting with your arms relaxed at your sides. Gently squeeze your shoulder blades together, then relax and repeat. Make sure to begin in healthy posture – keeping your ears and shoulders in alignment over your hips; keep your back relaxed; and do not shrug your shoulders during the exercise.
Sat, 04/15/2023, 9:30 AM ET and Sun, 04/16/2023, 5:15 PM ET
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
TWO DAY COURSE
Function, Dysfunction and Treatment: Colorectal and Coccyx Conditions, Male Pelvic Floor, Pudendal Nerve Dysfunction
This continuing education course is an intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor.
