Honolulu Chiropractor

The performance 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 connected by ligaments and a group of muscles (and their tendon attachments) known as the rotator cuff. Shoulder pain and disability are generally caused by problems with the rotator cuff. As with other joints, shoulder problems can be produced 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 take place 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 energize all of the muscles of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand and can often pinpoint the source of the shoulder problem. If these nerves are aggravated, the shoulder muscles can become tight or weak producing dysfunction in the conventional mechanics of the joint, principally in the rotator cuff. A similar condition can occur if one overuses 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. Those who sit too long in a slouched position, or with their shoulders held forward, are also at risk for developing these imbalances and shoulder problems.

Rotator Cuff Syndrome

Regardless of the reason, if the imbalances and irritation to the shoulder are not rectified, pain and limitation of normal motion will eventually develop. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost total inability to use the shoulder. Individuals of all ages are afflicted by this painful predicament known as Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome.

Frozen Shoulder

“Frozen shoulder” is another common condition.This often crippling condition happens when the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint get so inflamed that adhesions develop making the joint nearly stuck together. This results in extreme pain, as well as limitation of shoulder movement that makes it difficult for some individuals to even get dressed! Attention from a professional, such as your Honolulu chiropractor is crucial because if left unattended, frozen shoulder could take several years to heal if it heals at all. The ailments mentioned above are the most common of all shoulder disorders.

Treatment

Most shoulder treatments are generally the same. Muscle imbalances can be corrected 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 Honolulu chiropractor are also essential for a fulland speedy recovery.

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