Shoulder pain, back to reaching and lifting.
Paddling, stacking wood, a first big yard day or a fall on the ice can all find a shoulder. I give you a careful evaluation, hands-on care and a clear progression back to reaching, lifting and sleeping on that side.
- 60 to 90 min
- evaluations
- One on one
- every visit
- No referral
- required
01
What I treat
- Rotator cuff injuries and tears
- Impingement
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Shoulder dislocation
- Rehabilitation after shoulder surgery
- Stiffness and loss of motion
02
How I treat it
I assess the shoulder together with the neck and upper back, because they move as a team. Treatment is one on one: manual therapy and mobilization, soft tissue work, and Gunn IMS dry needling when tight muscles are holding the shoulder back.
Then we build strength and control in the order your shoulder can handle, from the first easy motions to overhead reaching, lifting and your sport. After surgery, I work with your surgeon’s protocol.
03
Your first visit
- 01A 60 to 90 minute evaluation: your history, how the pain started, what makes it better and worse, and a hands-on assessment of how you move.
- 02Treatment the same day, so you leave with less pain and a clear understanding of what is going on.
- 03A plan built around what matters to you, with a home program you can actually do.
Questions
Good to know.
Can a rotator cuff tear get better without surgery?
Many rotator cuff problems respond well to physical therapy. Your evaluation and your physician’s findings guide the plan, and if anything needs a surgeon’s opinion, I will tell you.
Why does my shoulder hurt at night?
Night pain is common with rotator cuff and bursa irritation. Treatment and a few changes to how you sleep often help. We will cover both at your first visit.
Do I need a referral?
No. Montana allows direct access to physical therapy, so you can call me directly. It is always wise to check whether your specific insurance requires a physician referral for reimbursement.
How do I make an appointment?
Call or text (406) 871-1751, or email tami.ellis@protonmail.com. Tell me a little about what is going on and when you are free. Visits are by appointment only.
Get in touch
Let’s get you moving.
Call, text or email. No referral needed in Montana. Visits are in the clinic on Highway 35 in Bigfork, or by telehealth.