The shoulder joint is known as a highly mobile “Ball and Socket” joint which is able to move in many different directions. With all the movement and activities that it can potentially do, the shoulder is very susceptible to injury. This is because the shoulder is held together by numerous muscles, ligaments and tendons. Because of its constant use, there are many potential conditions which may arise within the shoulder. Some of the more common conditions of the shoulder include: bursitis, frozen shoulder (aka “adhesive capsulitis”), strains and potentially tears of the rotator cuff, inflammation of the tendon, A/C joint sprains, and many more issues.
Common causes of Shoulder Pain:
- Poor posture/spinal alignment (especially in rounded shoulders)
- Prolonged sitting/inactivity
- Repetitive movements (cleaning, painting, other household activities)
- Sport injuries
- Falling on the outstretched hand (FOOSH)
- Overuse
- Poor sleeping position
What is the most common cause of Shoulder Pain?
Once the cause of the pain is determined by orthopedic exams and imaging, the most common causes of Shoulder Pain are mechanical or due to slips and falls.
The most common method of Shoulder Pain that is seen at Charge into Health Family Chiropractic is due to poor spinal alignment and poor posture. When looking at the shoulder, we also have to look at the neck. This is because most nerves, muscles and tendons start on the joints of the neck and attach to the shoulder. When the joints of the neck (Cervical Spine) are offline, it puts a variety of stress on the shoulders and will cause an uneven alignment and can cause the shoulder joints to roll forward. Additionally, whenever you reach upwards, it’s the nerves and muscles of the neck which are allowing for that motion in your shoulders.
How Chiropractic helps people with Shoulder Pain:
At Charge into Health Family Chiropractic, we not only look at the symptoms associated with pain, but the cause of it. Shoulder Pain is usually not limited to one area, and can affect other areas of your entire body. There are a variety of factors which might contribute to your Shoulder Pain, so it is important to provide an accurate diagnosis.
During this examination process, we will perform a variety of exams which include, but are not limited to: orthopedic, neurological, and muscle tests to find the cause of the problem. Once we have all of this information, you will be adjusted the same day. If we cannot adjust you, then you will be referred for X-Rays to see what is going on with the joints of your Shoulder.
From here, we will create a personalized plan to aid in your natural recovery without the need for drugs or surgery. The treatment will include spinal adjustments, muscle work, at home exercises, Kinesio taping, bracing/support, and lifestyle recommendations.
We will also be looking at any other factors which might have led to the injury and will help you make the modifications necessary to quicken your recovery and prevent further injury!