Neck and Shoulder Pain

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Penticton Physiotherapy

Neck and shoulder pain are some of the most frequent problems we help people with in our clinic

Every day, our team of therapists works with people in Penticton who are living with neck and/or shoulder pain. These issues affect many people at some stage in their lives and can appear to “come and go” over time without any clear pattern, reason, or obvious cause.

It’s very common for people with neck or shoulder pain to assume it will disappear on its own with a bit of rest, or that it will feel better in the morning. Sadly, we often see that this doesn’t happen, and that ignoring the underlying problem can allow it to build up, make the pain worse, and lead to further problems down the track.

10 Easy ways to end neck and shoulder pain

It can be hard to know where to start when you have pain or injury, so our physiotherapist Chris wrote the following free eBook to help you begin your low back pain recovery process.

This neck and shoulder pain eBook, written by registered physiotherapist and clinic owner Chris Stokes, reveals 10 easy ways in which you can begin to decrease your neck and shoulder pain and start making positive changes today.

These tips, which Chris advises his patients to do on a daily basis, are proven to help with pain, and are the building blocks to getting you back to where you want to be. Just click the download button to claim your copy!

Common neck and shoulder conditions we treat

Some of the most common neck and shoulder problems we see in our Penticton clinic include:

Neck (cervical) strain and sprain

Degenerative disc disease and arthritis in the neck

Cervical radiculopathy (a “pinched nerve” causing arm pain, tingling or numbness)

Whiplash-associated disorders after a car accident

Postural neck and upper back pain from desk or computer work

Muscular neck and shoulder pain

Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff tendinopathy

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)

Shoulder instability and labral injuries

Shoulder osteoarthritis

Rotator cuff injuries and tears

Post-operative shoulder surgery

Does this sound like you?

If you’re dealing with neck or shoulder pain that leaves you feeling stiff when you wake up, uncomfortable after sitting at a desk, or sore when you turn your head or lift your arm, it’s very easy to “take it easy” and rely on painkillers to get you through the day. However, this is rarely the best long-term solution, and can often leave you feeling worse, or stuck with persistent pain that lasts for months or even years.

We regularly hear people say they “slept funny”, tweaked something when reaching overhead, or lifted something awkwardly and that’s when their neck or shoulder pain started. But these problems are rarely just about one single event. More often they are the result of several factors coming together over time – such as poor posture, muscle tension from stress, repetitive or overhead tasks, time spent on phones or computers, and weakness around the neck, upper back and shoulders – eventually leading to muscles and joints that are stiff, tight, and painful.

How can I get rid of my neck and shoulder pain?

Most people who suffer from neck or shoulder pain hope that it will simply settle down on its own. For some, it can become a long-standing problem that is always there in the background to some degree, or flares up every few months or years.

The turning point for many people is deciding to actually do something about it. It’s human nature to put off dealing with these issues, but neck and shoulder pain can often improve when you work with the right people and follow an appropriate treatment plan.

Come in and work with one of our physiotherapists, who will carry out a thorough assessment of your neck, upper back and shoulders, and then start a hands-on treatment plan that is tailored specifically to you and your situation.

Complete a course of treatment and learn the right exercises for you. There is an overwhelming amount of information online about stretches and exercises for neck and shoulder pain, but nothing beats having a personalised program designed by a professional who has assessed you in person.

How we help relieve your neck and shoulder pain

The first step is getting a clear diagnosis of what is actually causing your neck or shoulder pain. Our physiotherapists will identify the underlying problem, allowing us to accurately target the specific muscles, joints or nerves that are contributing to your symptoms.

Our physiotherapists use a range of treatment techniques to help with neck and shoulder pain, including hands-on manual therapy, IMS/ Dry Needling, Shockwave Therapy and specific exercise.

All of these treatment options are evidence-based and are used by our therapists every day to help people in Penticton who are living with neck and shoulder pain.

Reasons to see one of our physiotherapists if you have neck or shoulder pain

  • In many cases, neck and shoulder pain and stiffness can be eased relatively quickly, often starting to improve within 2–3 sessions.
  • We can help you discover the underlying cause of your neck or shoulder pain – and by addressing this, we can work with you to reduce the chances of it coming back in the future.
  • Neck and shoulder pain often interfere with sleep, which then slows recovery and increases pain the next day – reducing your pain can help you sleep better and heal more effectively.

 

  • You will learn appropriate, efficient exercises that are designed for you and your goals, helping you to manage your neck and shoulder pain over the long term.
  • Most people would prefer to avoid relying on medication or considering surgery – following a structured physiotherapy program that is specific to you can often help you avoid these options.
  • Neck and shoulder pain can stop you from doing the things you enjoy – whether that’s work, sport, gym, hobbies, or spending time with family – and our aim is to help you get back to those activities and living your best life again.

Basically, our goal is to help you return to living your best life without neck and shoulder pain getting in the way of the things you love to do.

As mentioned, neck and shoulder pain are problems we see every day in our clinic, and we’ve helped many people in Penticton who have struggled with ongoing pain. Read on below to see some of the feedback our therapists have received from local clients.

No More Suffering – Get Neck & Shoulder Pain Support Today

Eva G
Penticton
I had persistent pain in my right shoulder and was so impressed by how much the IMS treatment helped, and so quickly! Along with exercises and stretches, I have made a complete recovery and the pain hasn’t returned for a couple months, now. Chris is very professional and takes the time to explain everything clearly. He is very conscientious of your comfort throughout the procedure.
Kara B
Summerland
I was worried I wouldn't be able to work for a long time but through intramuscular stimulation (IMS) treatments I was able to return quickly. I wish I would have discovered IMS years ago! Chris is very professional and knowledgeable. Additionally, he takes the time to get to know his patients and I've never feel rushed during an appointment. I would recommend Chris to anyone who suffers from acute or chronic pain.
Amanda D
Oliver
Was able to alleviate a lot of my discomfort is just the first IMS treatment. His personality and professionalism are what makes him a great Physiotherapist! Penticton is lucky to have him!
Chris P
Summerland
I would fully recommend Penticton Physiotherapy, the staff is knowledgeable, personable, and accommodating. I've had success with IMS and will be back for the next sports injury.
Todd W
Calgary
The friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable staff makes everything so easy, and is so very helpful. The treatment I've received is truly the best. If you're looking for a place for physio, Penticton Physiotherapy & IMS clinic is the place to go.
Christine H
Penticton
Since starting IMS, my fibromyalgia has gone from nonstop pain and super tight muscles, to being manageable without any medications and significantly softer muscles! All I can say is I should have seen him sooner! I can't believe how much it has helped!
Mel B
Penticton
I have complete faith in him and my kids and husband have seen him also with great results. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him, in fact, I'm always giving his number out to any friends in pain, he is the best!
Jennifer S
Penticton
Great location! We are a sports family and have brought our family to Penticton Physio since we have moved to town and have had a great experience. Polite, knowledgeable and so clean!
Brian M
Penticton
Highly recommend the Penticton Physiotherapy & IMS Clinic. My experience was great. Even before I arrived for my first visit the reception staff were super friendly, very helpful and really displayed excellent customer service.
Kari H
OK Falls
IMS has saved me so much pain and frustration. Years of dealing with a connective tissue disorder that I thought the root cause of the pain was solely loose joints and it turns out it was combined with overcompensating tight muscles… I have never had results like this with any other treatment, medication or therapy.

Testimonials

Chris helped me significantly with my pec and shoulder injury. He did a thorough assessment of the issue and provided regular IMS treatments for about 2 months post injury. I saw significant improvements even after the first couple treatments and am happy to say I’m almost 100% recovered now. I attribute the speed of my recovery to Chris’s treatments. I highly recommend Chris and his clinic to others looking to recover from injury safely and effectively.

I’ve been dealing with chronic shoulder and neck pain for a long time. Although I had tried physiotherapy elsewhere for some time, the discomfort never fully went away. However, after receiving dry needling/IMS treatment from Sofy, I felt my entire shoulder and neck area completely relax. It was the right treatment I had been looking for, and it truly made a big difference. I’m very grateful. Thank you Sofy!

I ended up at Penticton Physio for IMS. My neck tightness, migraines and upper back pain was debilitating. Over the course of 4 weeks, I saw Chris Stokes 4 Friday’s in a row, and I can honestly say, I haven’t felt this good in years. Chris was phenomenal from the first moment we met. He sat me down and asked tons of questions and explained every step of the process. Since seeing Chris I have referred multiple friends and family. Some of whom have been experiencing years of discomfort. They are now seeing him regularly and their aches and pains are shrinking away. I highly recommend anyone suffering with pain to head into Penticton Physio – it truly has changed my daily comfort level. I’ll be back for routine maintenance, because honestly, Chris and the staff are pretty rad. Thanks again Chris! I’m forever in your debt!

I can’t recommend Sofy and Trevor enough! I came in with persistent neck pain that had been bothering me for months, and their thoughtful approach made all the difference. They took the time to assess my condition thoroughly and created a personalized treatment plan that actually worked. The dry needling/IMS was a game-changer, relieving so much muscle tension and improving my mobility. They explained everything clearly, making sure I felt comfortable and informed every step of the way. Thanks Sofy and Trevor

I’ve had a great experience getting a course of treatment for a shoulder injury with Trevor at Penticton Physio. Super painless process from booking to billing (except maybe some of the dry needling in between!). Very professional and friendly, I was always able to ask questions and have everything explained clearly. Would 100% recommend!

Chris and Catherine literally saved my Career! I was apprehensive to try IMS at first. But Chris introduced me to this form of treatment and was so informative during my first appointment and talking me through the process. He referred me to Catherine for further treatments due to her expertise in my areas of pain and she is absolutely wonderful! My arm, neck and shoulder issues have improved greatly and I am able to continue to work with little to no pain. Thank you to Chris, Catherine and the rest of the wonderful staff. You guys rock!

The Next Steps...

Step 1
Book Your Appointment

Booking your appointment is simple and stress free. Simply click the below link to book online or call our front desk team for assistance.

Step 2

Come In For Your Assessment and Treatment

During your first appointment, our physiotherapist will complete an in-depth assessment of your neck and shoulder pain, and help diagnose your problem. They will also begin to treat you, and help you feel better from your first visit.

Step 3
Complete a course of treatment and FEEL BETTER 🙂

After a few sessions of physiotherapy treatments, the vast majority of our patients begin to feel great improvement in their pain and are moving in the right direction.

Meet our Physiotherapists

Chris Stokes
Registered Physiotherapist
Chelsea Rieu
Registered Physiotherapist
Tracey McQuair
Registered Physiotherapist
Catherine Fussell
Registered Physiotherapist
Trevor Reid
Registered Physiotherapist
Sofy Tsai
Registered Physiotherapist
Alex Schell
Registered Physiotherapist

10 Easy ways to end neck and shoulder pain

Begin your recovery today by claiming your free eBook!

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