Shoulder Pain? It’s (literally) all about balance!

Emphasis to Understanding the Rotator Cuff: The rotator cuff is a team of four small muscles that support your shoulder joint, stabilizing it and allowing it to rotate with control. When you reach overhead, throw, or lift, this quartet keeps the shoulder moving smoothly. Overuse, especially in sports or lifting, can lead to strains or tears—but that doesn’t mean surgery is the only fix.

Evidence on PT vs. Surgery for Shoulder Issues: Recent studies indicate that for many common shoulder issues, physical therapy is just as effective as surgery in the long run. With PT, we focus on exercises that build shoulder stability and strength, restore function, and reduce pain—often in a way that’s gentler and less disruptive than surgery. Once you have cut into your tissues they will be changed FOREVER!

Why Strength Beats Rest: You’ve likely heard, “Just rest it!” While it might seem like that’s the best thing in the moment, it can often lead to a reduction in range of motion and overall function. We get it, but your shoulder is made to move! Instead of complete rest, you want to prioritize targeted strengthening exercises. By working the muscles that support and stabilize your shoulder, physical therapy can help you return to activities without that nagging pain.

Shoulders are Made to Move: The shoulder is inherently unstable, but that’s what makes it capable of so many amazing movements. When we strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles, your shoulder becomes more resilient and pain-free—even if you’re lifting, reaching, or throwing.