Most people think of chiropractors as Doctors who just deal with the spine and treat neck and back pain. It’s true, we are very good at treating spinal injuries but we are also trained to adjust and treat extremities in Altoona.

Today we will be going over the shoulder and how chiropractic may help you get over that nagging shoulder pain.

First let me say it is very important to come in and have the shoulder evaluated to see what is actually causing the pain because the shoulder is one of the most mobile/unstable joints in the body. The ligaments and muscles surrounding the shoulder give it strength and stability and hold the joint in place. If one of these is strained/sprained it can cause pain and you will have decreased motion.

One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles that help stabilize the shoulder as well as help move shoulder during abduction and internal/external rotation. Rotator cuff injuries are commonly associated with repetitive over the head motions or for many athletes that use the muscles of the shoulder repeatedly (baseball pitchers, for example).

How do chiropractors help with rotator cuff injuries?

First control inflammation. Once controlled, we will break up adhesions within the muscle using passive range of motion as well as active/passive release techniques. Active/passive release techniques are simply applying pressure to injured muscle along the trigger point and gently moving arm in certain directions to help break up adhesions. In return, you get increased range of motion and decreased pain. Shoulder and spine adjustments are also utilized if needed. At home stretches/ exercises will also be given to help strengthen and stabilize joint and prevent future injuries.

Most likely with the above protocol we will get you back up in running within 6 weeks. If not, you may need further testing such as MRI and an orthopedic consult.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, give Dr. Dawson a call at (515) 967-3007 to schedule a complimentary consultation