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Don't Shrug Off Shoulder Pain!

By Sara Butler

Your shoulder is your most mobile joint. That means it’s also a joint that can be injured and damaged easily -- and that’s quite common. Shoulder pain can be rooted in a mechanical problem in the shoulder itself or even with issues in the neck. Pain can stem from the neck and radiate into the arm, shoulder, and hand. This is precisely why, if you're experiencing shoulder pain, you shouldn’t try to just shrug it off -- if you can shrug at all. There may be something else going on that has nothing to do with your neck. Here are a few of the most common reason for shoulder pain and how your chiropractor can help.

Common Issues

The most common causes of shoulder pain are issues with the nerve root in the neck and shoulder impingement. With nerve root issues, the nerve exits the spine by way of the cervical vertebrae. If that nerve becomes irritated or inflamed, then it can cause pain to radiate down into the shoulder, often reaching the fingers, too.

With shoulder impingement, the tendons of the group of muscles referred to as the rotator cuff can become caught as they pass through the joint. This is often called “swimmer’s shoulder” because it is a repetitive injury often seen in swimmers. The constant shoulder movements are a big risk factor. Over time, the impingement can lead to tendinitis and bursitis, making the pain worse. If it’s not treated, the tendons can thin out and tear, leading to symptoms such as:

  • Loss of range of motion
  • Loss of strength
  • Sudden pain when lifting, throwing, or reaching
  • Pain when raising the arm above the head or to the side
  • Pain on the outside or top of the shoulder

The Treatment

The goal of treatment for shoulder pain is to reduce inflammation and pain and increase the range of motion and strength. So, you first have to see your chiropractor discover what is causing the issues in the first place. Does it originate from the neck or the shoulder? Once that is determined, you may have to reduce or stop activities that are causing the problem in the first place. Ice therapy is also used in conjunction with hands-on chiropractic treatments such as adjustments. Your chiropractor may suggest exercises to help build strength and help you regain mobility.

Don’t put up with shoulder pain. It’s not normal and it’s something that can be treated effectively.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Round Rock, Tex. 

 

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