Shoulder Pain
What Is Chiropractic care?
Chiropractic is a natural method of health care that focuses on treating the causes of physical problems, rather than just the symptoms. Chiropractic is based on a simple but powerful premise: With a normally functioning spine, nerves, and joints, such as the shoulder joint, and a healthy lifestyle, your body is better able to heal itself. That's because the spinal cord, which is protected by the spine, is the main pathway for your nervous system. It controls feeling, movement, and function throughout your body.
Your chiropractor's education includes at least six years of professional training in the sciences and health care, leading to a doctor of chiropractic (DC) degree. He or she works to restore your health and guides you in a personal approach to overall wellness.
What Causes Shoulder Pain
Your shoulder is very flexible, but it is also fragile. Pain in your shoulder can result from one of a number of causes. An irritated nerve in your neck, repeated overuse, or an injury, can cause inflammation and stiffness and make everyday activities painful.
Can Chiropractic Care Help Me?
Your doctor of chiropractic looks at your overall health- focusing not only on your shoulder but also on your lifestyle. This total approach to wellness helps determine the best treatment for your problem.
History
To help find the cause of your shoulder pain, you and your chiropractor discuss your symptoms, any prior injuries, your health history, and your lifestyle, including work-related and leisure activities.
Physical Exam
Physical, orthopedic, and neurological tests can help reveal the condition of your shoulder. Your chiropractor gently touches and moves your shoulder to check for tenderness, pain, swelling, and restricted range of motion in the joints.
Tests
As "blueprints" of your bones, x-rays can reveal other causes of shoulder pain, such as arthritis, fractures, or joints that are out of place. If needed, other imaging tests, such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), may be used to show detailed images of tendons, muscles, and other soft tissue.
Diagnosis
Based on the results of your exam and tests, your doctor of chiropractic may recommend a treatment program to improve your shoulder's range of motion and reduce pain. If needed, your chiropractor also consults with or refers you to other medical specialists.
How Does a Chiropractor Treat Shoulder Pain?
Your doctor of chiropractic is trained to restore the health of your spine and shoulder. Adjustments and related treatments can help shoulder mobility and reduce pain.
Adjustments
Your treatment depends on the cause of your shoulder pain. To improve the range of motion in your shoulder, your chiropractor may gently stretch the tissue in your shoulder.
Related Treatment
Your chiropractor may suggest other types of treatment to reduce pain, restore range of motion, and regain strength. These may include electrical stimulation, ice or heat, ultrasound, trigger point therapy, or exercise. Your chiropractor can discuss these with you.
What Can I Do to Keep My Shoulder in Shape?
Listen to your body and stop doing things that cause pain in your shoulder. Do exercises that your chiropractor suggests.
Chiropractic Checkups
Just as you need regular dental exams, you also need regular chiropractic exams. Chiropractic care is one of the best ways to manage or prevent shoulder problems and maintain a healthier life.