Strengthening Your Shoulders With Chiropractic Advice
By Brandi Goodman
Stress often leads to tension in the body. Many people experience this tension in their neck and shoulders. In order to help avoid it, chiropractors suggest keeping the shoulders strong and well. Strong shoulders also make it easier to handle physical tasks.
Use Proper Posture
Oftentimes, poor posture is to blame for shoulder pain. If you sit slumped or tend to hunch over instead of sitting or standing straight up, your shoulders are going to suffer. The best advice anyone can give is to simply use proper posture. Think about how you're standing or sitting when your shoulder pain starts. If you start to feel an ache as you're slumped, sit upright. Keep your head high and your shoulders back if you want to avoid discomfort between your shoulder blades.
Do Shoulder Strengthening Exercises
Strong shoulders can be built through exercise. Perform some simple shoulder strengthening moves that will work to build the muscle and ease the stiffness in this area. Push-ups are one option, though you may want to start out on your knees first to help build arm strength overall. An upright row can also be done using a barbell. Hold the bar overhand and raise your shoulders until the bar is to your chest and your elbows are pointed outward. Lateral raises using dumbbells also help your shoulders. Start with your arms at your sides and simply raise both arms outward.
Relieve Stress
Since tension caused by stress is a common source of shoulder pain, you're going to need to learn how to relieve some of that stress if you want to avoid discomfort in this area. Aromatherapy is one solid option. Use an essential oil diffuser with lavender that works to relax you. Breathe in deeply as you perform a few stretches. Roll your neck from side to side. Lift your shoulders and lower them several times. The stretch paired with the scent can help to eliminate the tension and alleviate your stress.
Get Regular Chiropractic Care
Of course, keeping your shoulders strong doesn't guarantee they'll also be free from aches or joint restrictions. You should get regular chiropractic care to ensure your shoulders -- and the rest of your body -- are always in top shape and free from subluxations that could be the culprit of some unexplained discomfort.
Stop in at The Joint Chiropractic to get an adjustment. You may also receive some additional advice on how best to keep your shoulders strong and your body feeling well. Even a minor ache can be a source of stress in your day. Do what you can, getting chiropractic included, for your well-being.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Worth, Tex.