Tampa Chiropractor: Most Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
The complexity of the shoulder joint allows it to accomplish many different movements and activities. The shoulder bones, i.e., the scapula, clavicle and humerus, are held together by ligaments and nearly 20 different muscles. The primary articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is attached by ligaments and a group of muscles (and their tendon attachments) known as the rotator cuff. Problems with the rotator cuff are everyday causes of shoulder pain and disability. Sports injuries, mechanical dysfunctions from muscle imbalances, or wear and tear of the tissues encompassing the joint are often the causes of shoulder problems. Arthritic changes do happen in the shoulder joint, however not as commonly as in the weight-bearing joints of the spine, hips and knees.
Anatomy
Problems in the shoulder often arise in the cervical spine as the nerves from this region innervate all of the muscles and other tissues of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand. If these nerves are inflamed, the shoulder muscles can become tight or weak causing dysfunction in the ordinary mechanics of the joint, particularly in the rotator cuff. A similar situation can occur if one overworks the shoulder causing sports injuries, or in other repetitive activities that cause the muscles of the joint to become overly tight or strained. Those who sit too much in a slouched position, or with their shoulders held forward, are also at risk for developing these imbalances and shoulder problems.
Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Pain and restricted motion will continue to occur until the imbalances and aggravation are rectified. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost complete inability to use the shoulder. patients of all ages are afflicted by this painful predicament known as Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome.
Frozen Shoulder
Another common predicament is ” frozen shoulder. “Extreme inflamation of the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint can cause adhesions to oocur nearly sticking the joint together, thus producing crippling of the shoulder. This results in intense pain, as well as limitation of shoulder motion that makes even dressing oneself difficult! Attention from a professional, such as your Tampa chiropractor is crucial because if left unattended, frozen shoulder could take several years to clear up if it heals at all. There are many other afflictions of the shoulder however those mentioned above are easily the most common.
Treatment
Most shoulder treatments are basically the same. Muscle imbalances can be fixed with chiropractic treatment that includes soft tissue mobilization modalities to restore proper mobility to the shoulder joints and to correct any subluxations in the spine. Special rehabilitation exercises recommended by your Tampa chiropractor are also essential for a thoroughand fast recovery.