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Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints that can dramatically affect a person's quality of life. Whether caused by injury, overuse, or chronic conditions, this type of pain can significantly impact everyday activities, from basic tasks like getting dressed or reaching overhead to athletic pursuits and workplace responsibilities. Understanding the causes and chiropractic treatment options allow patients to make informed decisions about their care, often leading to better outcomes and fast recovery. 

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Acute Shoulder Injuries

  • Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or strains in the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint
  • Shoulder Impingement: When tendons of the rotator cuff become trapped and inflamed
  • Frozen Shoulder: Characterized by stiffness and restricted range of motion

Chronic Conditions

  • Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint
  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often from repetitive motion

Lifestyle Factors

  • Poor posture, especially from desk work
  • Repetitive overhead movements
  • Sports-related wear and tear
  • Sleep positions that strain the shoulder
  • Carrying heavy bags on one side

Chiropractic Approaches to Shoulder Pain

Your chiropractor uses various chiropractic techniques to address shoulder pain, focusing on both the shoulder complex and related areas that may contribute to the condition and chronic pain.

Assessment and Diagnosis

The assessment and diagnosis process begins with a thorough medical history, where your Bend chiropractor gathers detailed information about the onset of pain, any contributing incidents and the patient's daily activities that might affect their condition. During the physical examination, your chiropractor conducts comprehensive range of motion testing to evaluate the shoulder's mobility and identify specific movement patterns that provoke pain or discomfort. 

Muscle strength evaluation follows, allowing our chiropractors in Bend to assess any weaknesses or imbalances in the shoulder complex. A detailed postural analysis is performed to identify any alignment issues that could be contributing to the shoulder pain, particularly focusing on the relationship between the spine, neck and shoulder girdle. In cases where nerve involvement is suspected, your chiropractor will conduct neurological testing to evaluate nerve function and rule out any serious conditions requiring medical referral.

Chiropractic Techniques

1. Manual Chiropractic Adjustments

  • Shoulder Joint Manipulation: Gentle, controlled force to improve joint mobility
  • Scapular Manipulation: Adjustments to the shoulder blade position
  • Cervical Spinal Adjustments: Addressing neck issues in the cervical spine that may affect shoulder function

2. Soft Tissue Techniques

  • Active Release Technique (ART): Breaking down scar tissue and adhesions
  • Trigger Point Therapy: Targeting specific points of muscle tension
  • Myofascial Release: Working with the connective tissue system

3. Rehabilitation Exercises

  • Stretching routines for improved flexibility
  • Strengthening exercises for stability
  • Posture correction exercises
  • Range of motion exercises

4. Additional Modalities

  • Cold Therapy: Reducing inflammation in acute conditions
  • Heat Therapy: Improving blood flow and reducing muscle tension
  • Ultrasound: Deep tissue healing
  • Electrical Stimulation: Pain management and muscle re-education

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Pain

  1. Non-invasive treatment for pain relief
  2. Addresses underlying causes rather than just symptoms
  3. Improves joint mobility and function
  4. Reduces inflammation naturally
  5. Enhances healing through improved circulation
  6. Provides long-term pain management strategies
  7. Helps prevent future injuries

Prevention and Maintenance

Chiropractors also focus on preventing future shoulder problems through:

  • Posture education and correction
  • Workplace ergonomics advice
  • Exercise recommendations
  • Lifestyle modifications
  • Regular maintenance adjustments when needed

Through this comprehensive approach, chiropractic care offers an effective, drug-free option for managing shoulder pain and improving overall shoulder function. Long-term relief often depends on accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment selection and patient compliance with recommended exercises and lifestyle modifications. Contact our office today to make an appointment for the best chiropractic care in Bend.