Are you experiencing a dull ache or sharp pain in your shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or behind your back? You might be suffering from a rotator cuff injury.
Rotator cuff injuries are a common issue affecting millions of people worldwide. They can significantly impact daily life and activities, taking the joy out of activities you love. But did you know that chiropractic care can be an effective way to manage and treat this condition?
In this article, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of rotator cuff injuries and how chiropractic care can help alleviate your pain and discomfort. Let’s dive in!
What Are Rotator Cuff Injuries?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing for a wide range of motion. However, these muscles and tendons can become damaged or inflamed due to overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden trauma.
Common causes of rotator cuff injuries include:
- Sports activities that involve repetitive arm movements, such as baseball, tennis, or swimming
- Occupations that require frequent overhead lifting or reaching
- Age-related wear and tear
- Poor posture or shoulder mechanics
In turn, the above can lead to various symptoms, including pain, weakness, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder. In some cases, you may also experience a crackling sensation called crepitus when moving your arm. Luckily, your Montrose chiropractor can help you move past pain. Below, we explore how chiropractor care can alleviate your shoulder discomfort.
How Your Montrose Chiropractor Can Help Rotator Cuff Injuries
Chiropractors use a combination of techniques to reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing. In turn, chiropractors can help address a variety of musculoskeletal issues, including rotator cuff injuries.
Before developing a treatment plan, your chiropractor will always perform a thorough assessment. This involves a discussion of your medical history, symptoms, and more, as well as testing regarding your strength, weakness, posture, and more.
From here, your chiropractor develops a treatment plan suited to your unique needs. This treatment plan may include:
- Joint Adjustments: Chiropractors perform gentle manipulations to the shoulder joint and surrounding areas to improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques such as massage, trigger point therapy, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) can help relax tense muscles, break up scar tissue, and promote blood flow to the injured area.
- Postural Correction: Poor posture can contribute to rotator cuff injuries by placing undue stress on the shoulder joint. Chiropractors can provide guidance on proper posture and ergonomics to reduce strain on the rotator cuff.
- Lifestyle Advice: Your chiropractor may offer recommendations on modifying daily activities, using proper body mechanics, and implementing self-care techniques to manage your rotator cuff injury at home.
By addressing the underlying causes of your rotator cuff injury and providing targeted treatments, chiropractic care can offer numerous benefits, such as:
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved range of motion and flexibility
- Increased muscle strength and stability
- Faster recovery times
- Decreased risk of future injuries
And this can set you up for success in the future, meaning you are less likely to experience recurring and persistent injuries. In many cases, chiropractic care can be an effective alternative to surgery or long-term medication use, allowing you to regain function and return to your daily activities without invasive procedures or side effects.
So, if you’re suffering from a rotator cuff injury, know that the New Life Chiropractic team is here to help. Take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free shoulder, and book your appointment today.
