The complexity of the shoulder joint allows it to achieve many different movements and activities. Anatomically, the shoulder involves three unique bones – the scapula, the clavicle, and the humerus – many fastening ligaments, and approximately 20 different muscles. The main articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is attached 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. Sports injuries, mechanical dysfunctions from muscle imbalances, or wear and tear of the tissues encompassing the joint are often the causes of shoulder problems. 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

Problems in the shoulder often originate in the cervical spine as the nerves from this region animate all of the muscles and other tissues of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand. If these nerves are aggravated, the shoulder muscles can become tight or weak creating dysfunction in the normal mechanics of the joint, principally in the rotator cuff. A similar problem can occur if one overuses the shoulder causing sports injuries, or in other repetitive activities that cause the muscles of the joint to become overly tight or strained. Many persons are at risk of developing imbalance and shoulder problems if they sit too often in a hunched position, or with their shoulders held forward.

Rotator Cuff Syndrome

Pain and limited motion will continue to occur until the imbalances and inflammation are correctedchanged. The severity can vary from a slight “catching” or pain to an almost total inability to use the shoulder. people of all ages are afflicted by this painful predicament known as Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Syndrome.

Frozen Shoulder

Another common problem is ” frozen shoulder. “This often debilitating condition happens when the ligaments and tendons of the glenohumeral joint become so aggravated that adhesions develop making the joint practically stuck together. This results in extreme pain, as well as limitation of shoulder motion that makes it difficult for some individuals to even get dressed! Left alone, frozen shoulder can take several years to resolve on its own, if ever, and therefore treatment by a professional, such as your chiropractor is vital. There are many other afflictions of the shoulder however those mentioned above are by far the most common.

Treatment

Most shoulder treatments are generally 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 suggested by your chiropractor are also essential for a completeand quick recovery.

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