The complexity of the shoulder joint allows it to accomplish many different motions and activities. Anatomically, the shoulder involves three different bones – the scapula, the clavicle, and the humerus – many attaching ligaments, and approximately 20 different muscles. The principal articulation, the glenohumeral joint, is joined by ligaments and a group of muscles (and their tendon attachments) known as the rotator cuff. Problems with the rotator cuff are everyday causes of shoulder pain and disability. As with other joints, shoulder problems can be caused 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 occur in the shoulder joint, but not as commonly as in the weight-bearing joints of the spine, hips and knees.

Anatomy

The nerves in the cervical spine region innervate all of the muscles of the shoulder, elbow, arm and hand and can often pinpoint the origin of the shoulder problem. If these nerves are inflamed, the shoulder muscles can become tight or weak causing dysfunction in the ordinary mechanics of the joint, particularly in the rotator cuff. A similar situation can occur if one overburdens 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. People who sit too often in a lazy position, or with their shoulders held forward, are also at risk for developing these imbalances and shoulder problems.

Rotator Cuff Syndrome

Pain and limited motion will continue to occur until the imbalances and aggravation 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 problem 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 grow so irritated that adhesions develop making the joint almost stuck together. This results in accute pain, as well as limitation of shoulder mobility that makes even dressing oneself difficult! Attention from a professional, such as your San Jose chiropractor is crucial because if left alone, frozen shoulder could take several years to resolve if it heals at all. There are many other disorders of the shoulder however those mentioned above are almost certainly the most common.

Treatment

Most shoulder treatments are generally the same. Muscle imbalances can be fixed 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 recommended by your San Jose chiropractor are also vital for a thoroughand speedy recovery.

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