Shoulder Pain/Injury
Shoulder Pain/Injury
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Shoulder pain can be attributed to various musculoskeletal causes, and some common conditions include:
Rotator Cuff Disorders
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The rotator cuff, comprising four small muscles, stabilizes the shoulder. Injuries are often due to repetitive strains, especially during overhead activities, leading to conditions like shoulder impingement. Damage ranges from partial fraying to complete rupture, causing pain in the front or outside of the shoulder, particularly during overhead or sleeping.
Mention significant neck pain to your chiropractor, and seek immediate medical attention for shortness of breath or chest discomfort. Young patients with acute tears may need surgery; others can benefit from conservative care. Limit painful overhead activities, avoid sleeping on the irritated side, and consider sleeping on the unaffected side with a pillow for support
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
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Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, causes pain and restricted shoulder movement. It progresses through freezing, frozen, and thawing stages. Common in those over 40, especially women, it can result from events like falls or surgery, or preexisting conditions like rotator cuff strain.
Though no immediate cure exists, our clinic can manage it with hands-on care and exercises. At home, applying ice, heat, or sports creams may provide relief. Patience is crucial, as recovery can take months, with a few patients experiencing permanent stiffness.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
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Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendon is painfully pinched between the hard bones of the shoulder blade and humerus during arm raising. This can result from abnormally shaped bones or weak muscles failing to maintain proper separation. Common in athletes with overhead activities, such as swimming or baseball, and certain professions like painting or carpentry.
Symptoms include aching, especially during reaching, and disruptive nighttime pain. Long-standing impingement can lead to rotator cuff tears. Conservative care is usually effective, involving limiting painful overhead activity, avoiding sleeping on the affected side and considering adjustments in gym workouts.
Biceps Tendinitis
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Biceps tendinitis results from irritation or strain in the fibrous bands connecting the biceps muscle to the shoulder. Overhead activities often contribute, potentially accompanying conditions like rotator cuff tears. Symptoms include a deep ache in the shoulder or outside of the arm, exacerbated by activity initiation. Report popping, catching, locking, or a visible bulge (Popeye deformity) to your chiropractor, indicating potential additional issues.
Surgery is rarely necessary, and conservative care, such as that provided in our clinic, is usually effective. Initial steps involve avoiding heavy or repetitive activity, using ice for 10-15 minutes hourly, and incorporating prescribed exercises consistently for recovery.
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Remedial Massage and Assisted Stretching Therapy can provide significant relief and aid in the recovery of shoulder pain or injury. Remedial massage techniques, such as deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy, target tense and tight muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, reducing pain and promoting relaxation.
Assisted Stretching therapy focuses on increasing flexibility and range of motion in the shoulder, helping to alleviate stiffness and improve mobility.
By addressing muscle tension, promoting blood flow, and enhancing joint flexibility, these modalities can expedite healing, reduce discomfort, and restore function to the shoulder.