How Chiropractic Can Help Shoulder Pain

The shoulder has a rough life. It is often used extensively throughout the day with little to no thought. In order for the shoulder to work properly, an intricate network or muscles and ligaments need to work together to ensure a smooth and pain-free motion. This is not always the situation.

The rotator cuff if often responsible for taking the brunt of the movement and exertion.

One of the characteristics that make the shoulder the strongest, its flexibility and mobility, is also the cause to its downfall, instability. Shoulder injuries are quite common among athletes, often causing more injuries that Among athletes, the shoulder injuries are quite common; the shoulder sustains more injuries than almost all other parts of the body.

The shoulder is particularly vulnerable due to its unique construction. Other joints in the body, such as the ankle or elbow, have a somewhat limited range of motion. The shoulder has a wide range of motion as a freely moving joint. This leaves it susceptible to stress, injury, and pain.

The various tissues within the shoulder, like muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves, can be injured from overuse, excessive strain, falls, or improper motion. Treating shoulder pain can be a challenge because it is used so often in the course of daily life. A Doctor of Chiropractic can help relieve shoulder pain and speed healing.

The true cause of pain

Shoulder pain can be caused by a number of conditions. Injury to the rotator cuff is one of the most common causes and is commonly seen in athletes, like gymnasts and football players, who use their arms and shoulders frequently and tend to put increased stress on the joint.

Any activity that involved repetitive shoulder movements can also cause injury. Swimmers, tennis players, and baseball players are highly susceptible to injury.

Athletes are not the only ones who experience shoulder pain and injury. People who work in an environment that requires repetitive motion or strenuous upper body work are also at risk. Construction workers commonly experience shoulder injury and pain as do truck drivers.

Prevention of shoulder pain

Preventing shoulder pain and injury is usually quite simple. Athletes and workers whose jobs require repetitive arm work or rotation should take time to warm up and cool down before playing or working, and they should take breaks often.

Pain should be addressed sooner rather than later. The best course of action is with an ice pack applied immediately and a chiropractic appointment. Ignoring shoulder pain could lead to a more serious injury.

Taking time off to give an injured shoulder rest is always a smart move. The joint needs rest in order to heal and regular activities should not be resumed until the doctor says it is OK. A chiropractor can also recommend exercises specifically geared toward certain types of injuries or conditions – they should be followed to the letter to get the best results.

Chiropractic care for shoulder pain

Chiropractic care can be very beneficial for the patient with a shoulder injury or shoulder pain. It can help to reduce or relieve pain, improve range of motion, increase flexibility, and restore function to the joint. Different chiropractic techniques are used depending on the type of injury or condition.

At the first visit, the chiropractor will assess the patient to determine the best treatment plan to help you reach your goals. Soft tissue therapy, particularly ischemic compression techniques, have been found to be very effective for certain types of shoulder pain. It is often favored because it is effective,  safe, and is tolerated well by the patient. Other conditions may respond better to different chiropractic techniques.

Chiropractic care is often the treatment of choice for shoulder pain for two reasons: it is minimally invasive and it works! As is often the case, pain in one part of the body can cause pain in other areas. In the case of shoulder pain, the spine and neck may become inflamed. Chiropractic care addresses all areas of the body to relieve pain without drugs and get you out of pain and back to your life.

Acupuncture for shoulder pain

The multiple muscles of the shoulder often become tight when the shoulder is in pain. This is a natural reaction from the body but can often be a cause of pain. Acupuncture works by allowing the muscles to relax and aid in the healing process.

Are you or a loved one suffering from shoulder pain? If so, give us a call. Dr. Pappas and Dr. Mike are here to help!

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