Archive for July, 2009
Chiropractic Treatment Takes Away Shoulder Pain!
The complexity of the shoulder joint allows it to perform many different movements and activities. The shoulder bones, i.e., the scapula, clavicle and humerus, are attached together by ligaments and nearly 20 different muscles. The primary articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is joined by ligaments and a group of muscles (and their tendon attachments) known as the rotator cuff. Shoulder pain and disability are usually 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, but not as commonly as in the weight-bearing joints of the spine, hips and knees.
Anatomy
The nerves in the cervical spine region innervate 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, caused by inflamed nerves can cause dysfunction in the ordinary mechanics of the joint, especially in the rotator cuff. A similar situation can occur if one overworks the shoulder causing sports injuries, or in other repetitive activities that cause the muscles of the joint to become overly tight or strained. People are at risk of developing imbalance and shoulder problems if they sit too long in a lazy position, or with their shoulders held forward.
Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Regardless of the reason, if the imbalances and aggravation to the shoulder are not corrected, pain and limitation of normal motion will eventually develop. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost entire inability to use the shoulder. This painful condition is often called Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome, and can afflict patients of all ages.
Frozen Shoulder
“Frozen shoulder” is another common predicament.This often crippling condition arises when the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint grow so irritated that adhesions form making the joint almost stuck together. This results in accute pain, as well as limitation of shoulder movement that makes it difficult for some individuals to even get dressed! Attention from a professional, such as your chiropractor is vital because if left alone, frozen shoulder could take several years to heal if it heals at all. The ailments mentioned above are the most common of all shoulder disorders.
Treatment
The treatment of most conditions of the shoulder is relatively 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 offered by your chiropractor are also crucial for a fulland speedy recovery.