Shoulder Pain Relief in Watchung, NJ — Without Injections, Surgery, or Painkillers
Dr. Stella Dimitrakakis
Owner of Soma Vita Physio & Wellness
At Soma Vita Physio & Wellness in Watchung, NJ, we help active adults overcome shoulder pain, rotator cuff injuries, impingement, and stiffness—without relying on injections, surgery, or endless rest. Whether your shoulder hurts when reaching, lifting, sleeping, or exercising, our expert orthopedic physical therapists can help you return to the activities you love with confidence and strength.
Struggling With Shoulder Pain That’s Stopping You From Living Life Fully?
Does reaching overhead, lifting groceries, or even getting dressed feel like a challenge?
Is shoulder pain making it hard to sleep, work out, or play with your kids?
Have you been told that rest, ice, or cortisone shots are your only option?
If you feel stuck in a cycle of shoulder pain—and want a proven, holistic, drug-free approach to long-lasting relief—we can help.
Shoulder Pain Is Common—But It Shouldn’t Be “Normal”
Many people in Watchung, NJ believe shoulder pain is something they just have to live with, especially if they’ve been told it’s from “getting older,” arthritis, or wear-and-tear. But ignoring it—or masking it with pain meds—only leads to more stiffness, weakness, and frustration over time.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues are some of the most common conditions we successfully treat at Soma Vita Physio & Wellness.
Why Does My Shoulder Still Hurt—Even After Rest or Injections?
We hear this from patients every day.
You tried resting, ice, and anti-inflammatories.
Maybe you got a cortisone shot that helped for a while—but the pain came back.
Or you tried exercises from YouTube—but they either didn’t work or made things worse.
That’s because most treatments only focus on the site of pain—not the underlying cause.
The Real Reasons Shoulder Pain Often Lingers (Or Comes Back)
- You were told to rest—but inactivity made your shoulder weaker and stiffer.
- You relied on injections—but they only masked symptoms temporarily.
- You were given generic exercises—but they didn’t address your specific movement faults.
- You avoided movement out of fear—leading to more guarding and tightness.
- You had imaging (like MRI or X-ray) showing “wear and tear”—but weren’t told how to move better.
- You saw another provider—but felt like your treatment was rushed or cookie-cutter.
“What Can I Do To Get Rid Of MY Back Pain Quickly?”...
Well, here’s 4 things you can do:
1. First off, you need to make a decision about getting help: So many people procrastinate for so long, thinking that back pain will ‘just go away with time’, but then 6 months down the line they’re still putting up with it, and nothing’s changed…or it gets worse.
2. Next, do the RIGHT exercises: One of the best things to help you ease your back pain is to do the right series of progressed exercises – the right exercises given to you by a Physical Therapist will help reduce pain, and allow you to move freely again quick – and make sure that the problems don’t come back anytime soon (or aggravate your back even more like some exercises do).
3. Avoid sitting and long periods of rest: Ever tried to get up from the sofa after resting for a while, but you struggle because your back feels so painful and tight? That’s because one of the worst things you can do that adds to back pain is rest or sit for long periods of time. Too much rest, and sitting in awkward positions makes your back stiff and tight. It would really help if you were given appropriate strengthening exercises, alongside hands-on treatment, to get you active and healthy as quickly as possible.
4. Get real, “hands-on” Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is proven to help people with low-back pain. In fact at Soma Vita Physio & Wellness it’s one of the most common injuries we see. If your back pain is affecting your job, your ability to keep active, if it threatens your independence or gets in the way of spending quality time with family and friends – Physical therapy can help get you back to living the life you deserve as quickly as possible.
What Can I Do to Relieve My Shoulder Pain Right Now?”
Here are 4 simple things you can start doing today:
- Avoid pushing through sharp, pinching pain—listen to your body.
- Use heat to help relax tight shoulder muscles before gentle movement.
- Try mid-back (thoracic) mobility drills to improve overhead movement safely.
- Be mindful of your posture during computer work—keep your ribcage stacked over your pelvis and avoid slouching.
Our Approach to Shoulder Pain Relief at Soma Vita Physio & Wellness
We don’t just treat where it hurts—we look at how your whole body moves, stabilizes, and compensates.
From your posture and breathing patterns to your core and shoulder mechanics, our detailed assessments uncover the root cause of your pain—not just the symptoms.
Our 3-Phase Process to Help You Overcome Shoulder Pain for Good
Phase 1: Calm the Pain and Restore Comfort
Our first goal is to reduce pain, inflammation, and irritation—so you can move more comfortably and confidently again.you feel more like yourself again — fast.
This phase also includes hands-on treatment and gentle movement strategies that are safe and effective, even if you’ve been told to “just rest” or “take meds and wait”.
Phase 2: Identify and Fix the Root Cause
Once your pain is under control, we shift our focus to the real reason this started in the first place. We’ll identify and address all contributing factors — not just where it hurts, but why it hurts — so nothing gets missed.
We assess your entire kinetic chain (not just your shoulder) to identify postural habits, muscle imbalances, or faulty movement patterns contributing to your pain.
This ensures we don’t just mask the pain—but solve the real problem.
Phase 3: Build Strength, Mobility, and Injury Resilience
Once you’re feeling better, we focus on restoring full range of motion, rebuilding strength, and giving you the tools to prevent flare-ups.
Whether it’s overhead lifting, swimming, or reaching behind your back—we’ll guide you back safely and stronger than ever.
Why People in Watchung, NJ Trust Soma Vita Physio & Wellness for Shoulder Pain Treatment
Many patients tell us that working with us feels different than anywhere they’ve been.
They appreciate our hands-on care, attention to detail, and whole-body approach that goes beyond cookie-cutter shoulder protocols.
Whether you want to lift weights, get back to yoga, or simply sleep through the night without pain—we help you reclaim your freedom to move without limitations.
Get Expert, Specialist-Level Shoulder Pain Care in Watchung, NJ Today
At Soma Vita Physio & Wellness, we don’t just treat back pain—we treat the person behind it. Whether you’re an active parent, athlete, or someone tired of temporary relief, our team of orthopedic physical therapy specialists uses evidence-based techniques, advanced manual therapy, and whole-body movement analysis to help you move, feel, and live pain-free.
With Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)-level expertise—held by only 4% of physical therapists nationwide—and a collaborative care approach, you’ll always feel confident you’re getting the highest standard of back pain treatment.
Here’s what sets us apart:
🔹 Board-Certified Expertise in Orthopedic Physical Therapy (OCS)
Dr. Stella Dimitrakakis is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (OCS) through the American Physical Therapy Association—a designation earned by only 4% of physical therapists nationwide. This means your care is guided by the latest evidence, research-backed strategies, and a deep understanding of complex orthopedic and sports injuries.
🔹 Elite Manual Therapy & Movement Science Integration
From Functional Manual Therapy™ to advanced strength training and movement retraining, we combine hands-on techniques with personalized exercise programs tailored to your goals, your body, and your life.
🔹 Evidence-Based, Whole-Body Approach
Every treatment plan is grounded in the best available research, clinical reasoning, and over 30+ years of combined experience. We blend evidence-based practice with an individualized,
🔹 Nervous System & Breathwork Integration
Pain is not just mechanical. We integrate breathwork, nervous system regulation, and mind-body strategies to help you break pain cycles and move with freedom and ease.
🔹 Strength, Resilience & Injury Prevention Focus
We don’t just get you out of pain. We help you rebuild strength, restore balance, and bulletproof your body to handle the demands of your sport, training, or daily life.
🔹 1-on-1, Unrushed Care—Every Time
No double-booking. No techs. No insurance-driven restrictions. You get our full attention, every session.
🔹 Customized Care for Active Lifestyles — Whether you’re a runner, lifter, parent, or weekend warrior, your care plan is tailored to your body, goals, and activities—so you can get back to what you love, stronger and more resilient.
🔹 Prevention-Focused Care — We don’t just treat pain—we empower you with the tools, education, and strategies to prevent injuries from returning.
We don’t believe in bandaid care.
We believe in getting you back to your life—pain-free, strong, and confident.
✅ Not sure if we’re the right fit?
That’s why we offer a Free Discovery Call—to hear your story, answer your questions, and help you decide if our approach is right for you.
✅ And if we’re not the perfect fit?
We’ll connect you with one of our trusted colleagues to make sure you get exactly what you need.
🔵 Click below to request your Free Discovery Call today. Let’s help you move, feel, and perform your best—without limits.
What Other People Just Like You Are Saying About Soma Vita Physio & Wellness In Watchung...
80+ 5-Star Reviews
- Prachi B.
“Dr. Stella is a very patient focused – a great listener and provides very clear explanations to my questions and of her treatment. I came to Dr. Stella for a knee issue but she treated me holistically. I have the clearest understanding of how my posture, movement and exercise plan impact my joint health. I recommend Dr. Stella without reservation.”
- Kim S.
“Dr. Stella is amazing! She really listens, she explains everything in a way anyone can understand, and best of all, she actually does what she sets out to do! My last session is next week, but I feel like I”m already 100% better. If you have any doubts, just go ahead and do the consultation—you will walk out of there thoroughly impressed. I HIGHLY recommend her.”
- Mona C.
“I met Stella in 2016, for physical therapy on my right elbow. Greeted with a warm friendly smile. Next an evaluation and care plan were done. The rest is really history. She has been my Physical Therapist up until now. She is AMAZING, CARING, EMPATHIC and the one I trust with my PT care. Her bed side manners are impeccable and very professional. She always makes sure your posture and technique are correct, so you get the most benefit out of your physical therapy treatments. Know that she is always on your side and cheering you on. You are safe in the care that Stella provides.“
