The shoulder joint is capable of complex movements and is the most mobile joint in the human body. Our shoulders have little support from the ball and socket joint. Instead the surrounding muscles, ligaments and tendons provide stability. Because of this they are prone to injuries.
Consulting a chiropractor for shoulder pain and dysfunction is very common, as it affects almost half of us at some point in our lives. With chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue techniques and a specific exercise plan, shoulder problems can effectively treated.
A tear to any one of the four rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder and can range from mild to severe. Usually it occurs from falling onto an outstretched arm, lifting something heavy or with throwing motions. Also wearing down of the tendon can cause a rotator cuff injury. This occurs through gradual, repetitive strains. Pain in the shoulder can be accompanied by limited movement, radiating arm pain, and sleeping on that side can be very difficult.
Inflammation and/or microtears in the tendon can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of strength. We often find this occurs in patients who have repetitive jobs or perform daily activities that are more likely to irritate and weaken the shoulder tendons.
Frozen Shoulder – also known as adhesive capsulitis, causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder. A frozen shoulder causes the tissue around the joint to become inflamed, causing pain. It’s often not clear why it occurs, but it can be linked to periods of immobility (surgery or an injury stopping you moving your arm normally) and diabetes.
