Introduction

The complexity of the shoulder joint allows it to perform many different movements and activities. The shoulder bones, i.e., the scapula, clavicle and humerus, are attached together by ligaments and nearly 20 different muscles. The principal articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is attached 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 surrounding the joint are often the causes of shoulder problems. Arthritic changes do take place in the shoulder joint, but not as commonly as in the weight-bearing joints of the spine, hips and knees.

Anatomy

Problems in the shoulder often arise in the cervical spine as the nerves from this region energize all of the muscles and other tissues of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand. Tight or weak shoulder muscles, produced by inflamed nerves can cause dysfunction in the ordinary mechanics of the joint, especially in the rotator cuff. A similar condition 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. Individuals are at risk of developing imbalance and shoulder problems if they sit too long in a lazy position, or with their shoulders held forward.

Rotator Cuff Syndrome

Pain and restricted motion will continue to occur until the imbalances and irritation are correctedchanged. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost total inability to use the shoulder. This painful problem is often called Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome, and can afflict individuals of all ages.

Frozen Shoulder

Another common condition is ” frozen shoulder. “Extreme aggravation of the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint can cause adhesions to develop almost sticking the joint together, thus producing  incapacitation the shoulder. This results in accute pain, as well as limitation of shoulder mobility that makes even dressing oneself difficult! Left alone, frozen shoulder can take several years to heal on its own, if ever, and therefore attention by a professional, such as your Camarillo chiropractor is extremely important. There are many other afflictions of the shoulder however those mentioned above are by far the most common.

Treatment

Most shoulder treatments are basically 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 offered by your Camarillo chiropractor are also crucial for a fulland quick recovery.

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