Introduction
The complexity of the shoulder joint allows it to achieve many different motions and activities. Anatomically, the shoulder involves three unique bones – the scapula, the clavicle, and the humerus – many attaching ligaments, and approximately 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 common causes of shoulder pain and disability. As with other joints, shoulder problems can be created by trauma such as sports injuries, mechanical dysfunction due to imbalances in the muscles, or by wear and tear of the tissues surrounding the joint. Arthritic changes do occur 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 begin 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 irritated, the shoulder muscles can become tight or weak producing dysfunction in the ordinary mechanics of the joint, particularly in the rotator cuff. A similar problem can occur if one overworks the shoulder in sports such as tennis and golf, 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 irritation are rectified. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost complete inability to use the shoulder. This painful problem is often called Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome, and can afflict people of all ages.
Frozen Shoulder
“Frozen shoulder” is another common problem.This often incapacitating condition happens when the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint grow so irritated that adhesions develop making the joint almost stuck together. This results in extreme pain, as well as limitation of shoulder mobility that makes even dressing oneself difficult! Left alone, frozen shoulder can take several years to resolve on its own, if ever, and therefore treatment by a professional, such as your Orlando chiropractor is vital. The conditions mentioned above are the most generally known of all shoulder disorders.
Treatment
Most shoulder treatments are basically the same. Muscle imbalances can be resolved 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 offered by your Orlando chiropractor are also crucial for a full and quick recovery.
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