My mom has this shoulder pain goes all the way down to her fingers. Her doctor told her to go to physical therapy, but how can she go to pt without knowing what causes the pain? She had an xray done, but it did not show any signs. Will a MRI help? What exercise/method she should do to relieve some pain? Thx in advance
#1 by mistify on February 2, 2010 - 1:54 pm
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In most cases, the therapist will have a better understanding of the problem than the physician (85% of medical school graduates fail to demonstrate competency on a musculoskeletal exam and only 1/3 of US medical schools require the doctors to complete musculoskeletal training…whereas, this is the focus of a PTs education).
In reality, we actually do not need to know the specific anatomic structure that is injured (unless the plan is for surgery)…what is more important is how it responds to mechanical loading.
An MRI would be premature unless she is unable to raise her arm over her head or has other profound deficits.
#2 by Richard C on February 2, 2010 - 5:27 pm
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If the doctor has sent your mom for physical therapy then the chances are that it is muscular in nature and coming from either the neck or shoulder. The therapist will do an examination and then proceed from there. There are many techniques that are available to the therapist to help your mom. In the meantime use ice on the area for fifteen to twenty minutes per hour.