Tampa Chiropractor: Most Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The achievement of many different motions and activities is the result of the complexity of the shoulder joint. The shoulder bones, i.e., the scapula, clavicle and humerus, are fastened together by ligaments and nearly 20 different muscles. The primary articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is joined 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 around the joint are often the causes of shoulder problems. Arthritic changes do happen in the shoulder joint, though not as commonly as in the weight-bearing joints of the spine, hips and knees.

Anatomy

The nerves in the cervical spine region animate all of the muscles of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand and can often pinpoint the origin of the shoulder problem. If these nerves are aggravated, the shoulder muscles can become tight or weak causing dysfunction in the conventional mechanics of the joint, principally 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. People are at risk of developing imbalance and shoulder problems if they sit too often in a slouched position, or with their shoulders held forward.

Rotator Cuff Syndrome

Pain and constricted 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 entire 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

“Frozen shoulder” is another common predicament.Extreme aggravation of the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint can cause adhesions to develop practically sticking the joint together, thus producing  incapacitation 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. The ailments mentioned above are the most prevalent of all shoulder disorders.

Treatment

Most shoulder treatments are relatively 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 vital for a completeand quick recovery.

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