Dynamic Physical Therapy
Shoulder Pain in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT

Find Relief from Persistent Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can interfere with daily activities, making simple movements like reaching, lifting, or sleeping uncomfortable. Whether caused by overuse, injury, or age-related changes, proper care can help restore function and reduce discomfort. At Dynamic Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists provide targeted treatment plans designed to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Understanding Shoulder Pain
The shoulder joint is highly mobile but also prone to instability and injury. Common causes of shoulder pain include:
- Rotator cuff injuries – Tendonitis, tears, or impingement affecting shoulder stability.
- Arthritis – Wear and tear in the joint leading to stiffness and discomfort.
- Tendon inflammation – Overuse causing irritation and restricted movement.
- Muscle strain – Excess stress from repetitive movements or sudden impact.
- Postural imbalances – Poor posture leading to shoulder misalignment and tension.
Symptoms often include:
- Sharp or persistent pain when moving the arm.
- Difficulty lifting objects or performing overhead activities.
- Limited range of motion and shoulder stiffness.
- Discomfort at night, especially when lying on the affected side.
Comprehensive Shoulder Pain Treatment
Our customized therapy plans address the root cause of shoulder pain to promote healing and prevent recurrence. Treatment may include:
1. Pain Management and Inflammation Reduction
- Manual therapy to release muscle tension and improve joint movement.
- Heat or cold therapy to relieve discomfort.
- Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
2. Restoring Shoulder Mobility
- Targeted stretching to improve flexibility.
- Joint mobilization to increase range of motion.
- Guided movement exercises to restore normal function.
3. Strengthening the Shoulder and Surrounding Muscles
- Resistance training to build strength in the rotator cuff and supporting muscles.
- Stabilization exercises to improve shoulder control.
- Scapular strengthening to enhance posture and reduce strain.
4. Postural Correction and Education
- Ergonomic guidance for work and daily activities.
- Instruction on proper movement mechanics.
- Home exercise programs for long-term maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my shoulder pain is serious?
Persistent pain, significant weakness, or difficulty moving the shoulder may indicate an underlying issue requiring professional evaluation.
Can shoulder pain go away on its own?
Mild discomfort may improve with rest and activity modification, but ongoing pain often requires targeted physical therapy for full recovery.
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery time varies based on the severity of the condition, but most patients see improvements within a few weeks of consistent therapy.
Meet Your Shoulder Pain Specialists
At Dynamic Physical Therapy, we provide comprehensive treatment for shoulder conditions using evidence-based approaches to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function. Our specialized care addresses both acute injuries and chronic problems affecting your daily activities and athletic performance.
Matthew Nelson PT, DPT, TPS, AFDNS, AIB Cert – VR
Matt brings specialized expertise in treating complex shoulder conditions, from rotator cuff injuries to frozen shoulder. His advanced training in trigger point dry needling effectively addresses muscle tension patterns that contribute to shoulder dysfunction. Matt’s sports rehabilitation background enables him to develop targeted interventions for baseball players, golfers, and other athletes with shoulder pain. His comprehensive approach addresses not only local symptoms but also the biomechanical relationships between the shoulder, neck, and upper back for complete recovery.
Jessica Bauerkemper PT, DPT, AIB CERT – VR
Jessica combines her orthopedic expertise with specialized manual therapy techniques to effectively treat shoulder pain. Her approach focuses on restoring proper joint mobility while addressing muscle imbalances through targeted exercise. Jessica excels at post-operative rehabilitation for shoulder surgeries, including rotator cuff repairs and joint replacements, guiding patients through each stage of recovery with personalized care. Her integration of Pilates principles helps rebuild the stability and movement control essential for shoulder health.
Anika Jansen, PT, DPT
Anika implements a comprehensive approach to shoulder rehabilitation that includes functional dry needling and specialized manual therapy. Her treatment plans address not only local shoulder dysfunction but also how neck and scapular mechanics influence shoulder movement. Anika specializes in helping active individuals with shoulder injuries return to outdoor activities like climbing, paddling, and cycling with modified techniques and appropriate strengthening to protect the shoulder during recovery.
Ciena Lavallee PT, DPT, Cert. MDT
Ciena applies her McKenzie Method principles to identify how cervical and thoracic spine mechanics might contribute to shoulder symptoms. Her systematic approach helps determine whether your shoulder pain has a mechanical pattern related to neck position or movement. Ciena develops comprehensive rehabilitation programs that address the entire upper quarter, ensuring proper movement patterns and muscle balance for optimal shoulder function during daily activities and athletic pursuits.
Start Your Shoulder Pain Recovery Today
Don’t let shoulder discomfort limit your activities. Contact Dynamic Physical Therapy to schedule an evaluation and begin your customized treatment plan.