You may never know how important your shoulders are until pain or discomfort prevents you from lifting a simple load, making a full rotation of the arm, or reaching out to access something on your upper counter. You are also more likely to experience shoulder pain if your job requires you to lift, reach, or carry objects. Without timely intervention and treatment, shoulder pain can prevent you from carrying out routine activities like cleaning, yard work, or playing with the kids. At South Bay Wellness Center in San Jose, shoulder pain treatment is provided by Jay Ebadat, DC, a chiropractor who uses conservative and holistic measures. For more information, call or schedule an appointment online.
What Is Shoulder Pain?
This condition refers to any aching, stiffness, or general discomfort that affects one or both shoulder joints. The shoulder is the most flexible joint in your body and consists of three bones; the scapula, clavicle, and humerus. These bones are surrounded by a supportive layer of cartilage that acts as a cushion. Four tendons referred to as rotator cuffs enable your shoulder to move forwards, backwards, up, and down.
What Are The Common Causes Of Shoulder Pain?
Although your shoulders are exceedingly tough, they are not invulnerable. Repetitive movements, manual labor, and playing sports can all contribute to pain. The top cause is rotator cuff tendinitis, a condition that occurs because of swollen tendons. Other causes of shoulder pain include: bone spurs, bursitis, frozen or pinched nerves, spinal cord injuries, a dislocated shoulder, and torn rotator cuff. You may also experience shoulder pain if you have a chronic musculoskeletal condition such as arthritis.
How Is Shoulder Pain Diagnosed?
When you visit a medical specialist, they will assess your medical history and provide a full physical exam to diagnose your issue. During the examination, Dr. Ebadat will press your shoulders gently to analyze the area for tenderness or swelling. He will also ask a series of questions about your symptoms as he carries out a range-of-motion exercise to test your joint stability and shoulder strength. If the physical examination does not offer sufficient insight into the cause of your shoulder pain, the doctor will order imaging tests such as ultrasound or x-rays. These will provide more detailed images of your shoulder joint, which can help in diagnosis.
What Should You Expect During Shoulder Pain Treatment?
There are various treatments available depending on your symptoms and the specific cause. At South Bay Wellness Center, Dr. Ebadat uses holistic, conservative treatments to manage shoulder pain. To start with, the doctor recommends healthy lifestyle changes such as compression, rest, elevation, light stretching, ice, or home-based exercises to strengthen your shoulder joint. If it persists, the doctor may recommend Kinesio taping, cold laser therapy, neck decompression, rehabilitation exercise, and ergonomics training. The treatment objective is to lessen pain, enhance mobility, and encourage your natural body healing process.
Do not let it keep you from participating in your favorite activities. If you suffer from acute or chronic shoulder pain, there is the hope of your shoulder regaining its range of motion. Be sure to call or book an appointment online with South Bay Wellness Center to begin your journey to healing.
