Most of us tend to overlook our shoulders until they start to ache and bother us. The truth is, our shoulders are constantly in motion, involved in various activities such as lifting, carrying, and waving. Being the most movable joint in the body, the shoulder is susceptible to a wide range of injuries and disorders.
Neglecting shoulder issues can have long-term consequences. Identifying the source of shoulder discomfort is crucial for effective treatment and lasting relief. In this post, Performance Health will examine typical reasons for shoulder pain and how chiropractic care can help the shoulder regain its functional health.
Understanding the Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can have numerous causes, but some common culprits include:
- Tightness in the neck and upper back
- Spinal misalignment
- Arthritis
- Abnormal movement patterns
- Athletic injuries and car accidents
While some of these factors may suggest specific shoulder joint issues, many of them suggest that the spine is more likely to be the source of pain. The nerves that control the shoulder originate from the spinal column. If the vertebrae in the neck and upper back are compressed or misaligned, it can lead to inflammation of the shoulder nerves, resulting in pain and discomfort. Even slight spinal misalignments can impair nerve transmission to the shoulder, leading to a series of problems. In some cases, what may appear as shoulder pain could actually be referred pain from the spinal column.
Recognizing Symptoms of Shoulder Damage
Shoulder pain and limited mobility in the joint can develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the underlying causes. Initially, the signs and symptoms of a shoulder injury may be mild, but they can quickly worsen. Since the shoulder joint is involved in most of our daily activities, it's important to closely monitor and address any symptoms related to the shoulder to prevent further progression of the problem. Signs that may indicate the need for urgent evaluation of the shoulder include:
- Shoulder ache that has persisted for more than a week
- Recurring shoulder pain that comes and goes
- Difficulty lifting the arm above the head
- Pain or discomfort when lifting or carrying objects
- Increased shoulder pain in the evening
- Visible signs of joint injury, such as bruising or swelling
- Unusual cracking or clicking sensations during shoulder movement
Chiropractic care for Shoulder Pain
Chiropractic care is a gentle, non-invasive, and effective alternative to medicine and surgery. Chiropractors are specially trained to address spine and shoulder complex issues related to shoulder pain. A chiropractic session for shoulder pain typically begins with a comprehensive diagnostic process that includes a thorough medical history review and modern imaging tools to identify the underlying problem. Once an accurate diagnosis is established, a customized treatment plan is created to facilitate the patient's speedy recovery from the condition.
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If you're experiencing shoulder pain or injuries, don't hesitate to contact our skilled staff at Performance Health for assistance.
(Note: Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.)