Chiropractic Treatment Can Help Your Frozen Shoulder
By Stephen R. Farris
In the workplace, it's not uncommon for folks who do the same job each day to use the same type of motion, whether it's the legs, knees, back, hands, wrists, arms, or shoulders.
At some point, those body parts might seize up and cause pain (due to overuse or long periods of immobility), especially in the area of the shoulder. It happens more than you might think, even though only 2-5 percent of the population may get diagnosed with the condition. The pain can be severe enough to the point it becomes difficult to raise your arm level to your neck.
It's called "frozen shoulder." The pain could last a day, maybe two, or continue for periods of time (maybe 2-9 months). The condition has been linked to people with diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and thyroid disease.
Usually a frozen shoulder goes through three stages.
- Freezing
- Frozen
- Thawing
Freezing Stage
This is the stage in which the shoulder begins showing signs that something is not right. It begins to feel inflamed, more painful, and sore.
Frozen Stage
In this stage -- which could linger from 4-6 months -- the shoulder is stiff and your range of motion is very limited. As mentioned earlier, you might not be able to lift your arm above your neck.
Thawing Stage
This is the stage where you should start to see some improvement. Your range of motion begins to improve. In worst case scenarios, you might not get to this stage for a few months and/or it might take up to two years to get full range of motion.
Treatment for a frozen shoulder is relatively simple and involves stretching, which can be performed in the beginning by a physical therapist or your local chiropractor.
Chiropractic treatment is more than just making back adjustments. Chiropractors can also treat other areas of your body, such as joints, neck, legs, hips, and shoulders.
Let your local chiropractor -- such as those found at The Joint Chiropractic -- take a look at your shoulder to assess your condition. They can provide you with treatment options and for how long you may need them. Their goal is to get you back on track to the healthy, active lifestyle you deserve.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Charlotte, N.C.