Shoulder pain results from a variety of occurrences, from sprains, strains, and dislocations, to rotator cuff pain from tissue irritation. These types of injuries are very common, particularly in athletes. Chiropractors are able to treat the pain through manipulation, adjustments, strengthening exercises, and joint-mobilization treatments.
Chiropractic treatments are not limited to spinal issues. Most chiropractors train in treating and adjusting other bodily extremities, including the ankle, knee, and shoulder joints.
Symptoms of Shoulder Problems
In addition to pain, other symptoms may also be indicative of a problem in the region. These symptoms include:
- Feelings of instability
- Limits to the range of motion
- Tingling sensations or muscle weakness
- Numbness or burning in the shoulder area
- Inflammation
Causes of Pain
The shoulder joint is extremely mobile, allowing your arm to move in a circular motion. However, this makes it prone to pain and injury. Arthritis can develop, either from over-use, heredity, or a combination of both. Repetitive motion as the body ages naturally causes inflammation and swelling in the joint. Bursitis and tendinitis are also types of inflammation that can affect the shoulder when you overuse it. Tendon tears that occur as a result of aging, falling, an accident, or other injuries will inevitably cause pain and instability. Without treatment, persistent shoulder pain can result in a limit to the range of motion, constant pressure, and a morphing of the area.
Chiropractic Treatment Options
When surgical intervention is not necessary, a chiropractor can offer several treatment options. In order to restore the rhythm and mechanics of the shoulder, a dual approach must be employed, examining the mechanics of the muscles as well as the joint. The appropriate adjustments will impact both the joint and the surrounding tissues, restoring mobility and alleviating tightness and pain. Undergoing treatment from a chiropractor allows the tissues to heal naturally.
Tissues support and surround the shoulder joint. However, accident, injury, overuse, and natural wear-and-tear can cause the parts of the joint to shift out of alignment. This moving can cause the muscles and ligaments to pull in a manner different from their normal physiology, leading to muscle spasms, inflammation, and pain. However, there are many gentle adjustment options to relieve shoulder pain. The chiropractor may shift it forward and backward until it goes back into place, depending on the patient’s symptoms. Additionally, adjusting the upper back and neck strengthens the area and take pressure off of the joint.
Chiropractors will provide adjustments manually, repositioning and realigning the joint in a pain-free manner. Chiropractic treatments are drug-free and side effect free, making them an optimal choice. These types of treatments do not require recovery time and will not cause you to be bed-ridden or otherwise impaired.
