Shoulder complaints
Shoulder pain can arise from joint dysfunction, muscle strain, or soft tissue issues. The shoulder is a complex joint with a wide range of motion, making it susceptible to injury and overuse.
Symptoms Associated with Shoulder Pain:
- Pain during movement, especially lifting or reaching.
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion.
- Clicking or grinding sensations.
- Swelling or tenderness around the shoulder.
- Weakness in the arm or shoulder.
Common Causes of Shoulder Discomfort
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or inflammation of the tendons supporting shoulder movement.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Restricted movement due to stiffness in the joint capsule.
- Shoulder Impingement: Tendons rubbing against bones during motion.
- Arthritis: Degeneration of the shoulder joint, causing pain and stiffness.
- Postural Strain: Poor posture leading to imbalances and pain.
- Trauma or Overuse Injuries: Falls, sports injuries, or repetitive strain.
Common imaging findings for shoulder pain:
- Bone spurs or signs of arthritis visible on X-rays.
- Rotator cuff tears or inflammation seen on MRI or ultrasound.
- Joint narrowing or irregularities in the shoulder capsule.
- Soft tissue swelling or impingement markers.
Common Diagnoses:
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tears: Damage or inflammation of the tendons stabilizing the shoulder, often caused by overuse or injury.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Stiffness and restricted movement due to thickening of the shoulder joint capsule.
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Compression of tendons between shoulder bones during movement, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Shoulder Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled bursa sac, causing swelling and tenderness during motion.
Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid): Degeneration or autoimmune inflammation of the shoulder joint, resulting in stiffness and pain. - Labral Tears (SLAP Lesion): Damage to the cartilage lining the shoulder socket, often reducing joint stability
- Postural Strain or Dysfunction: Poor posture creates imbalances and tension, leading to chronic shoulder pain.
- Dislocated or Separated Shoulder: Displacement of the shoulder joint or collarbone, typically caused by trauma or falls.
Treatment Options
- Chiropractic Adjustments: Improve shoulder alignment and restore joint mobility.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Release tension and reduce inflammation in surrounding muscles and tendons.
- Laser or Shockwave Therapy: Stimulate healing and address chronic issues.
- Strengthening Exercises: Rebuild muscle support around the shoulder.
- Postural Corrections: Prevent strain by addressing imbalances.