All About Shoulder Pain and Recovery
Did you know?
The shoulder is the MOST MOBILE joint in the entire body!
Your shoulder might be the most mobile, however, it is also extremely vulnerable to injury and pain.
Fortunately for our community, common shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff tears, tendinitis, bursitis, labral tears, shoulder impingement, and AC joint sprains can be successfully and effectively treated with conservative care such as the chiropractic and rehabilitative care we provide at Southern Spine!
Risk factors for shoulder pain:
Repetitive overhead activities and throwing
Stress
Poor posture
Improper biomechanics
Sedentary lifestyle
Let us take a closer look at what the shoulder looks like
Image Courtesy of Musculoskeletal Australia
Glenohumeral Joint: the joint formed by the upper arm bone (humerus) and the shoulder blade (scapula).
Labrum: the cartilage cup that helps support the glenohumeral joint.
Rotator Cuff: a series of 4 muscles that hold the glenohumeral joint in place and allow for movements.
AC Joint: the joint formed between the collarbone and shoulder blade (scapula).
Are You Experiencing Shoulder Pain? Here Are Some Common Causes!
Poor soft tissue function and muscular activation
Poor breathing patterns can become a cause due to the recruitment of overactive muscles within the chest, neck, and shoulder
Neck: restricted joints, pinched nerves, and muscle tension
Upper Back: restricted joints
At Southern Spine & Rehab, we individualize treatment plans just for you!
Shoulder Impingement
Impingement is the most common shoulder disorder and accounts for about half of all shoulder complaints seen by physicians. Those who perform repetitive overhead activity are at greater risk for impingement. This includes athletes who participate in: swimming, baseball, volleyball, weightlifting, and tennis as well as jobs like carpenters, electricians, painters, and wall paper hangers.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
These can include tendinopathies, strains, and tears. The majority of rotator cuff injuries are due to repeated stress and overuse, while a small percentage result from trauma.
Labral Tear
It is estimated that approximately 60% of the general population may have a shoulder labral tear. Athletes, especially baseball, softball, football, volleyball play and swimmers are even more susceptible due to the overhead nature of their sport. However, not all people with labral tears experience pain or symptoms.
AC Joint Sprains
An AC joint sprain is a very common sports injury. It usually occurs due to a fall on the shoulder or an outstretched hand injuring a ligament that supports the joint. Significant tears in that ligament can allow your collarbone to move upward, out of its normal position, creating a raised bump under your skin.
A detailed consultation and thorough examination is crucial!
Dr. Pedigo has gone through extensive schooling and extra-curricular training to be able to properly diagnose and treat injuries of the shoulder.
Dr. Pedigo will work with you and present you with the best possible treatment options for your shoulder injury. Shoulder injuries are often resolved through our conservative treatment approach and this should be attempted first before surgery. If the goals we set together are not achieved in timely manner or the pain begins to worsen, advanced imaging (x-ray or MRI) or an orthopedic consult may be warranted and will be discussed with you.
Schedule your appointment today and join the Southern Spine Family!
References
Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor by Thomas A. Souza