What is Shoulder Pain?
Pain in the shoulder may suggest an injury, which is more common in athletes participating in sports such as swimming, tennis, pitching, and weightlifting. The injuries are caused due to the over usage or repetitive motion of the arms.
In addition to pain, shoulder injuries also cause stiffness, restricted movements, difficulty in performing routine activities and popping sensation.
What are the Most Common Causes of Shoulder Pain?
Some of the common shoulder injuries that cause pain and restrict the movement of the shoulders include:
Sprains and strains
A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments (tissues that connect adjacent bones in a joint). It is a common injury and usually occurs when you fall or suddenly twist your shoulder. A strain is the stretching or tearing of muscle or tendon (tissues that connect muscle to bone). It is common during sports. Strains are usually caused by twisting or pulling of the tendons.
Rotator cuff injury
The rotator cuff consists of tendons and muscles that hold the bones of the shoulder joint together. Rotator cuff muscles allow you to move your arm up and down. Rotator cuff injuries often cause a decreased range of motion.
Tendonitis
Overuse or injury of the shoulder joint can lead to inflammation of the tendons, which are the tissues that attach muscle to bone.
Bursitis
It is an inflammation of a fluid-filled sac called bursa that protects and cushions your joints. Bursitis can be caused by chronic overuse, injury, arthritis, gout or infection.
Fractures
A fracture is a break in the bone that commonly occurs because of injuries, such as a fall or a direct blow to the shoulder.
Dislocations
A shoulder dislocation is an injury that occurs when the end of the bone is forced out of its position. It is often caused by a fall or direct blow to the joint while playing a contact sport.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of shoulder arthritis, characterized by progressive wearing away of the cartilage of the joint.
Treatment of Shoulder Pain
A chiropractor can assess the origin of your shoulder pain and propose a treatment plan to alleviate pain and enhance your overall well-being. Chiropractors frequently employ a combination of therapies, including spinal adjustments, mobilization, massage, and ultrasound. Depending on the cause and severity of your shoulder issue, your chiropractor may also suggest exercises and stretches to enhance mobility and strength.
Surgery is seldom necessary for shoulder pain. A chiropractor specializing in shoulder pain can manipulate the spine and pelvis to restore alignment in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, thereby improving blood circulation, nerve function, and reducing inflammation and muscle tension. This comprehensive approach aims to relieve discomfort and enhance range of motion. Furthermore, chiropractic care can promote better nerve function and support the body's natural healing processes.
