Shoulder Pain Archives - Elite Physio Therapy

Shoulder Labrum Injury: Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Dr Dharam

Introduction

A shoulder labrum injury is a common yet often overlooked condition that can significantly impact shoulder stability, mobility, and performance. Using premium physiotherapy services and cutting-edge methods, we at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre in Delhi and Gurugram provide a thorough, cutting-edge, and individualized approach to treating labral injuries.

What is a Shoulder Labrum Injury?

The fibrocartilaginous rim that surrounds the glenoid shoulder socket is called the labrum. In addition to improving joint stability and deepening the socket, it serves as an anchor point for the biceps tendon and several ligaments. A labral tear, which is injury to this structure, can impair shoulder function, strength, and control.

Labral injuries commonly affect overhead athletes, weightlifters, and active individuals, often resulting from trauma, overuse, or degenerative changes.

Causes of Shoulder Labrum Injuries

For focused treatment, it is essential to comprehend the underlying cause. Typical reasons include:

Trauma: Being struck directly in the shoulder or falling on an outstretched arm.
Repetitive Overhead Activities: Baseball, swimming, tennis, and volleyball are among the sports that frequently include repetitive overhead activities.
Heavy Weight Lifting: Particularly when biomechanics are compromised.
Sudden Pulling Forces: A sudden pull on the arm.
Shoulder Dislocation: An anterior labrum rupture (Bankart lesion) is frequently the outcome of shoulder dislocation.

Mechanism of Injury

Usually, labral injuries are caused by:

Compression Forces: Compression forces include things like hitting the shoulder directly.
Torsional Stress: Twisting while the arm is stabilized.
Excessive Range of Motion: Excessive range of motion might cause the capsule to extend too much and tear the labrum.

Signs and Symptoms

Deep, vague shoulder pain
Clicking, popping, or grinding sensation
Weakness or fatigue during activity
Loss of range of motion
A feeling of instability or looseness
Pain with overhead movements or lifting

Types of Labrum Tears

SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior): Common in athletes; affects the top of the labrum.
Bankart Lesion: Involves the anterior-inferior portion; often from dislocations.
Posterior Labral Tear: Seen in contact sports or due to repetitive strain.
Degenerative Labrum Tear: Often age-related or due to chronic wear and tear.

Diagnosis at Elite Physiotherapy

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we emphasize accurate diagnosis using a combination of:

Physical Assessment

Apprehension and Relocation Test: Indicates instability and anterior labrum involvement.
O’Brien’s Active Compression Test: Detects SLAP tears.
Crank Test: Assesses labral integrity under rotation and compression.
Biceps Load Test II: Evaluates SLAP lesion with elbow flexion and resisted supination.

Functional Assessment

Evaluation of shoulder biomechanics
Scapular movement analysis
Postural and muscular imbalances
Sport-specific movement evaluation

When is Surgery Required?

Surgery may be considered when:

The tear is large and unresponsive to conservative management
There is a frequent shoulder dislocation
There is severe instability affecting daily and sports activities
Associated with significant rotator cuff or biceps tendon pathology
No improvement with at least 6–8 weeks of structured physiotherapy

At Elite, we aim to avoid surgery wherever possible by delivering targeted physiotherapy that promotes healing and restoration.

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy

We provide an evidence-based, sport-specific, non-surgical approach tailored to each patient’s lifestyle and athletic goals.

Pain Management

We begin by reducing pain and inflammation using:

Cryotherapy: Controlled cold therapy to reduce swelling
High-Intensity Class 4 Laser: Speeds up tissue healing and reduces pain
Super Inductive System (SIS): Stimulates deep tissue repair through magnetic field therapy

Manual Therapy Techniques

Joint Mobilization: To improve glenohumeral mechanics
Soft Tissue Mobilization: For surrounding muscles like the rotator cuff, deltoid, and scapular stabilizers
Myofascial Release: Enhances circulation and relieves tightness

Advanced Modalities

CRET Therapy: Promotes deep tissue healing by improving vascularity and cellular regeneration
Shockwave Therapy: Used with caution if coexisting calcific tendonitis is present, and used in case of chronic conditions.
Dry Needling and Taping: As needed to support tissue relaxation or stability

Corrective Exercise Prescription

Scapular stabilization and control
Rotator cuff strengthening
Neuromuscular control of the shoulder complex
Proprioceptive training
Postural correction and ergonomic education

Hydrotherapy

We may incorporate gentle aquatic exercises early in rehab to promote low-impact mobility and strengthening without overloading the joint.

What Makes Elite Physiotherapy Unique?

Expert Sports Physiotherapists with experience treating Olympic and national-level athletes
State-of-the-art Equipment, including Class 4 Laser, CRET, SIS, and advanced cryo-therapy units
Personalized Care with sport-specific rehabilitation goals
Detailed Assessment Protocols based on the latest clinical reasoning and hands-on experience
Holistic Approach addressing the root cause, not just the symptoms

Conclusion

A shoulder labrum injury can be frustrating and functionally limiting, especially for athletes and active individuals. The right physiotherapy strategy doesn’t just make recovery possible—it maximizes your potential to come back stronger than before.

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we combine clinical expertise, cutting-edge modalities, and athlete-centric care to deliver lasting recovery and enhanced shoulder function.

If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain or instability, book your appointment today at www.elitephysiotherapy.in and take the first step towards pain-free, powerful shoulder performance.

BICEPS TENDINITIS

Posted on June 3, 2025 by Dr Dharam

What is Biceps Tendinitis?

Biceps tendinitis is a prevalent condition characterized by inflammation of the biceps tendon, leading to pain and functional limitations in the shoulder region. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre is providing individualized, research-based physiotherapy treatments to manage this condition effectively.

Causes of Biceps Tendinitis

Overuse: The biceps tendon can be strained by repetitive overhead motions, which are typical in sports like baseball, tennis, and swimming.
Age-related Degeneration: As people age, their tendon strength gradually declines, leaving them more vulnerable to inflammation.
Acute Injuries: The biceps tendon may sustain damage by unexpected stress, such as falling on an outstretched arm.

Because the biceps tendon’s long head passes through the shoulder joint, overhead motions might put stress on it. Microtears, inflammation, and eventually tendinopathy can result from repetitive tension.

Clinical Presentation

Anterior Shoulder Pain: Localized pain in the front of the shoulder, anterior shoulder pain is frequently made worse by overhead exercises.
Tenderness: Bicipital groove pain when palpated.
Weakness: Less strength in elbow and shoulder motions.
Snapping Sensation: A snapping sensation occurs as the tendon moves within the groove when the arm is moved.

Diagnostic Approach at Elite Physiotherapy

Range of Motion (ROM) Testing: Assessing elbow and shoulder range of motion to find restrictions.
Strength Assessment: Assessing muscle strength in order to identify deficiencies.

Special Tests:
- Speed’s Test: Biceps tendon involvement is indicated by pain experienced during resisted shoulder flexion.
- Yergason’s Test: Pain during external rotation and resisted supination suggests biceps tendinopathy.
- Palpation: Determining whether the bicipital groove is tender.

Physiotherapy Management for Biceps Tendinitis

Pain Management
- Cryotherapy: Using cold packs to numb and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Doctors use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control pain and swelling under proper medical supervision.

Therapeutic Modalities
- Radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (rESWT): Using acoustic waves, radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) helps chronic tendinopathies heal.
- High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy: Improves tissue repair by penetrating deep tissues to lessen pain and inflammation.
- Super Inductive System (SIS): The Super Inductive System (SIS) uses high-intensity electromagnetic fields to activate muscles and reduce pain.
- Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy involves performing exercises in water to increase range of motion and reduce joint tension.

Exercise Therapy
- Stretching exercises: Mild stretches to increase biceps and surrounding muscle flexibility.
- Strengthening exercises: Increase the stability of your elbows and shoulders with progressive resistance training.
- Postural Training: Postural training corrects posture to reduce excessive strain on the shoulder complex.

Manual Therapy
- Soft Tissue Mobilization: Methods for increasing circulation and releasing tense muscles.
- Joint Mobilization: Improving joint mobility and decreasing stiffness.

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre?

Personalized Treatment Plans: Made to fit each patient’s requirements and objectives.
Advanced Modalities: Availability of state-of-the-art treatments such as Class 4 Laser Therapy and rESWT.
Experienced Professionals: A group of knowledgeable physiotherapists with a focus on musculoskeletal disorders.
Comprehensive Care: We assist our patients along their rehabilitation process, from the first evaluation to complete recovery.

Conclusion

Biceps tendinitis can significantly affect both daily activities and athletic performance if not properly managed. An organized physiotherapy program combined with early intervention is essential for a successful recovery. At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help our patients restore function and return to the activities they love.

SHOULDER PAIN: AC JOINT PATHOLOGY

Posted on May 22, 2025 by Dr Dharam

What is AC Joint Pathology?

AC joint pathology can significantly impact an individual’s everyday activities and athletic pursuits, especially contact and overhead sports. The acromion, a portion of the scapula, and the clavicle are joined at the top of the shoulder by the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. This tiny joint is essential for shoulder mobility and load transfer between the axial skeleton and upper limb.

Causes of AC Joint Pathology

AC joint pathology may arise from various causes, including:

Trauma or Injury: A direct blow to the shoulder, frequently sustained in contact sports or falls.
Repetitive Overuse: Athletes who engage in overhead exercises like weightlifting, swimming, or throwing are said to exhibit repetitive overuse.
Degenerative changes: Include osteoarthritis brought on by aging or long-term joint stress.
Muscular weakness and postural imbalances: Can change biomechanics and concentrate load on the AC joint.

The most typical mechanism is a fall with the arm adducted on the shoulder tip. This stress damages the AC ligaments by pushing the acromion downward about the clavicle. In extreme situations, there may be obvious clavicular displacement due to the rupture of the coracoclavicular ligaments.

Signs, Symptoms, and Clinical Features

Patients with AC joint pathology may present with:

Localized shoulder pain in the upper part
Swelling and an obvious deformity or protrusion at the AC joint
Pain during overhead or cross-body arm motions
Restricted range of motion, especially when flexion and abduction are occurring
Shoulder girdle muscle weakness
Feelings of clicking or grinding when moving the shoulders

Diagnostic Methods at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre

We use a thorough approach to diagnosis at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre. Our Physiotherapist integrates advanced clinical reasoning and specialized orthopedic examinations with physical and functional assessments. These consist of:

Cross-body Adduction Test: Passive horizontal shoulder adduction is used to replicate pain.
The AC Resisted Extension Test: Measures the amount of pain experienced when the shoulder is at 90° flexion and internal rotation while resisting horizontal abduction.
O’Brien’s Test: By stressing the joint when the shoulder is internally rotated and extended to 90 degrees, O’Brien’s Test distinguishes between labral pathologies and AC joints.
Palpation and Observation: Finding step-off abnormalities, edema, and soreness.
Functional Testing: Analysis of scapular rhythm, muscular imbalances, and biomechanics in tasks particular to sports is known as functional testing.

Advanced and Personalized Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy

The focus of our care at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre is on precise, evidence-based therapies that are customized for each patient. To lessen discomfort, enhance function, and avoid recurrence, we place a high priority on conservative, non-surgical treatment.

1. Pain Management and Inflammation Control

Cryotherapy: Aids in the early stages of acute pain relief and inflammation reduction.
High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy: Effectively lowers chronic pain, improves circulation, and encourages cellular healing.
Shockwave therapy (if chronic): Promotes tissue regeneration and is helpful for calcific deposits or chronic tendinopathies of the AC joint.
CRET Therapy: Through capacitive and resistive energy transfer, CRET therapy promotes deep tissue repair, particularly in cases of fibrosis or persistent joint stiffness.

2. Joint and Soft Tissue Mobilization

Our manual therapy techniques focus on restoring joint alignment and tissue extensibility:

Joint mobilizations of the AC and scapulothoracic joints
Myofascial release for tight shoulder and neck muscles
Soft tissue mobilization for rotator cuff and deltoid muscles

3. Neuromuscular Re-education

We employ targeted neuromuscular retraining to restore proper scapular mechanics and shoulder rhythm. This includes:

Biofeedback-based exercises
Scapular stabilization drills
Closed-chain kinetic exercises for proprioceptive enhancement

4. Strengthening and Conditioning

Progressive strengthening is essential to restore dynamic stability. Focus areas include:

Rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers
Core and kinetic chain muscles
Resistance band and weight-based exercises

We carefully monitor training intensity to avoid joint overloading.

5. Functional Rehabilitation and Return to Sport

As the condition improves, we integrate sport-specific drills and correct movement patterns. This ensures safe return to activity and reduces risk of reinjury.

Plyometric training and proprioception drills
Athletic taping or bracing, if needed
Performance analysis and correction

6. Advanced Modalities and Supportive Therapies

Super Inductive System (SIS): Stimulates muscle contractions and enhances neuromuscular control without physical strain.
Hydrotherapy: When applicable, it offers resistance with minimal joint stress, ideal for early mobilization.

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre?

Our centre combines clinical excellence with advanced physiotherapy technologies. We guide each treatment with a comprehensive assessment and a personalized rehabilitation plan. Our commitment to athlete-centric care ensures faster recovery, optimal performance, and long-term joint health.

At Elite Physiotherapy, we don’t just treat symptoms; we correct the root cause. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a fitness enthusiast, our specialized programs ensure you return stronger and pain-free.

Conclusion

Timely and professional physiotherapy care can effectively manage acromioclavicular joint disease. Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre provides unmatched care that is customized to meet your needs thanks to our state-of-the-art modalities, evidence-based therapies, and sophisticated diagnostics. To start your path to recovery and optimal performance, schedule your consultation right now.

ROTATOR CUFF DISORDERS

Posted on May 19, 2025May 19, 2025 by Dr Dharam

Rotator cuff disorders are among the most common causes of shoulder pain and dysfunction in athletes and the general population. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre is the use of cutting-edge clinical evaluations and evidence-based therapies in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders.

What Is the Rotator Cuff?

The four muscles that make up the rotator cuff are the subscapularis, infraspinatus, teres minor, and supraspinatus. In addition to facilitating arm motions like lifting and rotation, these muscles stabilize the shoulder joint. When overuse or damage causes these tendons to become irritated, inflamed, or torn, disorders result.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Disorders

Disorders of the rotator cuff can result from:

Repeated overhead motions (found in weightlifting, tennis, and swimming, for example)
Poor shoulder biomechanics or posture
Falling on an outstretched arm is an example of acute trauma.
Aging-related degenerative changes
Scapular dyskinesis or imbalances in the muscles
Poor training methods or inadequate warm-up

Clinical Features and Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms include:

Sharp or dull shoulder pain, particularly when performing overhead tasks
Arm weakness, especially during external rotation or abduction
Sleep is being disrupted by night pain, particularly while laying on the side that is affected.
restricted range of motion
Shoulder clicking or catching sensation
Atrophy of muscles in chronic conditions

Diagnostic Approach at Elite Physiotherapy

We use a comprehensive functional and physical evaluation to identify rotator cuff disorders. Our thorough assessment consists of:

Assessing posture to find scapular winging or changed shoulder mechanics
Testing for rotator cuff integrity using strength and range of motion
Checking for localized tenderness or swelling

specific orthopedic examinations, like:
- Empty Can Test (for supraspinatus)
- Infraspinatus Test
- Belly Press and Lift-Off Tests (for subscapularis)
- Drop Arm Test (for full-thickness tears)
- Neer’s and Hawkins-Kennedy’s Test (for impingement)

Finding compensatory patterns using functional movement screening

These evaluations help us develop individualized and successful treatment programs.

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre

Our facility provides a thorough, superior physiotherapy treatment plan that is customized to the patient’s condition, objectives, and sport-specific requirements. Our main goals are tissue healing, functional restoration, muscle retraining, and pain alleviation.

1. Manual Therapy

Joint mobilizations to increase scapulothoracic and glenohumeral mobility
Release of soft tissues to lessen trigger points and tense muscles
Enhancing fascial mobility through myofascial release

2. Therapeutic Exercise Program

We design specific exercises for:

Stabilization of the scapula and neuromuscular control
Periscapular and rotator cuff muscle strengthening
Increasing proprioception and dynamic stability
Training in ergonomics and posture correction

To rebuild strength and endurance, we use bodyweight movements, weights, and bands in a gradual resistance training regimen.

3. Advanced Physiotherapy Modalities

We integrate cutting-edge technologies to accelerate healing and reduce recovery time:

Shock Wave Therapy: In chronic situations, shock wave therapy enhances tendon repair, lowers pain, and increases collagen formation.
CRET Therapy: Capacitive Resistive Electric Transfer, or CRET Therapy, promotes cellular regeneration and deep tissue healing, making it perfect for tendon disease.
Super Inductive System: The Super Inductive System (SIS) uses high-frequency electromagnetic fields to provide both functional stimulation and pain alleviation.
High Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy: Encourages cellular regeneration and reduces inflammation without causing heat damage
Cryotherapy: In acute circumstances, cryotherapy decreases inflammation and offers instant pain relief.
Hydrotherapy: Promotes early mobility in a low-impact setting; particularly helpful in situations that are subacute or following surgery.

Depending on the patient’s state, each modality is applied strategically to provide the most possible benefit with no chance of aggravation.

4. Taping and Bracing

We use kinesiology taping for:

Relieving pain and providing proprioceptive feedback
When necessary, muscle contraction or activation
Assisting with shoulder motion during daily activities or sports

When to Seek Help

Consult our experts if you have ongoing shoulder pain, weakness, or trouble performing overhead tasks. Early intervention stops additional deterioration and speeds up healing.

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre?

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we offer:

Experienced sports physiotherapists with expertise in shoulder rehabilitation
Individualized treatment plans based on detailed assessment
Access to the most advanced physiotherapy equipment and modalities
A track record of successful outcomes in athletes and active individuals
Holistic care focusing on complete functional restoration

Conclusion

Rotator cuff disorders can significantly impact quality of life and athletic performance. Early diagnosis, detailed assessment, and expert physiotherapy management are key to optimal recovery. At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we combine manual therapy, targeted exercises, and advanced modalities to deliver exceptional care.

For appointments and detailed consultations, visit www.elitephysiotherapy.in. Let us help you regain full, pain-free shoulder function and return to your best performance.

SHOULDER OSTEOARTHRITIS

Posted on May 15, 2025May 15, 2025 by Dr Dharam

Introduction

Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects the glenohumeral joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre is offering cutting-edge, scientifically supported physiotherapy, designed to successfully treat shoulder OA.

Causes and Mechanism of Injury

The glenohumeral joint’s articular cartilage gradually deteriorating is the main cause of shoulder OA. Among the contributing elements are:

Age-related degeneration: Degeneration brought on by aging is common in those over 60.
Previous shoulder injuries: Dislocations or fractures may accelerate the degeneration of cartilage.
Repetitive overhead activities: Manual laborers and athletes are particularly vulnerable to repetitive overhead activities.
Genetic predisposition: An important factor may be family history.

Pain and restricted mobility result from the degeneration’s effects on subchondral bone alterations, osteophyte formation, and joint space constriction.

Clinical Features

Shoulder OA patients frequently exhibit:

Chronic shoulder pain: Gets better when you rest and gets worse when you move.
Stiffness: Especially after periods of inactivity.
Crepitus: A grating feeling when moving the shoulder.
Limited range of motion: Having trouble raising the arm or carrying out overhead tasks.

Diagnostic Approach at Elite Physiotherapy

Our thorough evaluation consists of:

A thorough patient history: Helps determine the type, severity, and timing of symptoms.
Physical examination: Evaluating joint mobility, muscle strength, and posture.
Specialized physiotherapy tests: Neer’s and Hawkins-Kennedy tests are used to assess joint integrity and impingement.
Functional assessments: Measuring the effect on day-to-day activities using instruments such as the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI).

These assessments aid in creating a customized treatment strategy.

Advanced Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy

Using a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and cutting-edge techniques, our treatment approach aims to reduce pain, restore function, and stop more joint degradation.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques are employed to:

Improve joint mobility: Increase range of motion in your joints with mild mobilizations.
Reduce muscle tension: To ease tightness, apply a soft tissue massage.

Therapeutic Exercises

Customized exercise programs are designed to:

Strengthen rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers: Enhancing shoulder stability.
Improve flexibility: Stretching activities might help you become more flexible and less stiff.
Enhance proprioception: Improve proprioception with workouts for balance and coordination to avoid injuries and falls.

Postural Correction and Ergonomic Advice

Educating patients on maintaining proper posture and modifying daily activities to reduce shoulder strain is integral to our approach.

Integration of Advanced Modalities

At Elite Physiotherapy, we incorporate cutting-edge technologies to augment traditional physiotherapy treatments:

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)

ESWT reduces pain and encourages tissue regeneration by applying high-energy sound waves to the affected area. Research has demonstrated its efficacy in enhancing shoulder function and reducing discomfort.

Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer (CRET) Therapy

Deep tissue heating is produced by CRET therapy using radiofrequency energy, which improves blood flow and speeds up the healing process. In cases of osteoarthritis, it helps to improve joint mobility and lessen pain.

Super Inductive System (SIS)

High-intensity electromagnetic fields are used by SIS to activate muscles and relieve pain by stimulating neuromuscular tissue. Patients with pain-related reduced movement will find it especially helpful.