Shoulder pain relief

Introduction

The accomplishment of many different movements and activities is the result of the complexity of the shoulder joint. Anatomically, the shoulder involves three different bones – the scapula, the clavicle, and the humerus – many fastening ligaments, and approximately 20 different muscles. The principal articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is attached by ligaments and a group of muscles (and their tendon attachments) known as the rotator cuff. Shoulder pain and disability are commonly caused by problems with the rotator cuff. Sports injuries, mechanical dysfunctions from muscle imbalances, or wear and tear of the tissues around the joint are often the causes of shoulder problems. Arthritic changes do happen in the shoulder joint, however not as commonly as in the weight-bearing joints of the spine, hips and knees.

Anatomy

The nerves in the cervical spine region energize all of the muscles of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand and can often pinpoint the root of the shoulder problem. Tight or weak shoulder muscles, produced by aggravated nerves can create dysfunction in the normal mechanics of the joint, especially in the rotator cuff. A similar problem can occur if one overburdens the shoulder in sports such as tennis and golf, or in other repetitive activities that cause the muscles of the joint to become overly tight or strained. Individuals are at risk of developing imbalance and shoulder problems if they sit too much in a slouched position, or with their shoulders held forward.

Rotator Cuff Syndrome

Pain and limited motion will continue to occur until the imbalances and irritation are correctedchanged. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost total inability to use the shoulder. Individuals of all ages are afflicted by this painful problem known as Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome.

Frozen Shoulder

Another common condition is ” frozen shoulder. “This often debilitating condition happens when the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint become so inflamed that adhesions form making the joint almost stuck together. This results in intense pain, as well as limitation of shoulder mobility that makes even dressing oneself difficult! Attention from a professional, such as your Tampa chiropractor is very important because if left alone, frozen shoulder could take several years to heal if it heals at all. There are many other disorders of the shoulder although those mentioned above are almost certainly the most common.

Treatment

Most shoulder treatments are basically the same. Muscle imbalances can be corrected with chiropractic treatment that includes soft tissue mobilization modalities to restore proper mobility to the shoulder joints and to correct any subluxations in the spine. Special rehabilitation exercises recommended by your Tampa chiropractor are also vital for a completeand speedy recovery.

Tags: cuff, pain, rotator, shoulder, Tampa chiropractor